NNC/FGN questions former Nagaland CM SC Jamir’s political motives and historical role in the Naga struggle, citing the NPC, 16-Point Agreement and Naga divisions.
DIMAPUR — The NNC/FGN has questioned former Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. SC Jamir’s political motives and historical role in the Naga struggle, following his recent statement calling for an early settlement to the Naga issue.
In a rejoinder signed by Zhopra Vero, Kedahge, NNC/FGN, the organisation said it did not doubt Jamir’s desire for an early solution but questioned whether his approach was trustworthy and aligned with the aspirations of the Naga people.
The NNC/FGN alleged that Jamir had contributed to political divisions, violence and bloodshed in Naga history, and urged the people to critically examine his statements whenever they appeared to undermine Naga aspirations and values.
The organisation took particular exception to Jamir’s reported criticism of the numerous Naga political groups, asking whether he could deny having played a role in dividing the Naga people, especially the freedom fighters.
It alleged that the Naga Peoples Convention (NPC) was formed under the supervision of Indian intelligence agencies to undermine the 1951 Naga Plebiscite, in which it claimed 99.9% of the people had voted in favour of Naga sovereignty.
According to the rejoinder, the signing of the 16-Point Agreement resulted in the creation of Nagaland state and the division of the Naga homeland.
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It further alleged that the agreement contributed to continuing divisions and distrust, including tribalism and regionalism, within Naga society.
The organisation also questioned Jamir’s historical position on peaceful dialogue, citing a letter he reportedly wrote to P Shilu Ao, the first Chief Minister of Nagaland, on March 22, 1963.
In the letter, Jamir allegedly objected to a proposed meeting between Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Naga leader AZ Phizo, referring to Phizo as a “terrorist.”
The NNC/FGN stated that the alleged remark raised questions about Jamir’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Naga issue.
It drew a comparison between his reported description of Phizo in the past and his alleged characterisation of contemporary Naga political groups as “extortionists.”
The organisation further criticised Jamir’s reported remarks about the celebration of Durga Puja by Naga Christians in Nagaland, questioning whether such representations were intended to gain recognition from Indian political leaders.
It alleged that Jamir had prioritised the interests of the Indian state over the rights and aspirations of the Naga people throughout his political career.
It rejoinder also questioned his reported pride in describing Nagaland as “part and parcel of the Indian family.”
Despite its criticism, the NNC/FGN said Jamir was welcome to seek a solution to the Indo-Naga conflict if he genuinely identified with the Naga people and the Christian faith.
It urged him to pursue such efforts in a manner that was “true, just and honourable,” while questioning his renewed interest in the Naga issue at an advanced age.
“When was the last time he truly represented the rights of the Naga people?” the organisation asked, questioning his present intentions.
The NNC/FGN asserted that history would remember the political developments surrounding the NPC, the 16-Point Agreement and the division of the Naga homeland, regardless of how they were represented in the present.