Dimapur, Oct. 10 (EMN): Even as the NSCN (IM) and the government of India sit across the table for what is it widely expected to be the final round of negotiations between the two parties, the working committee of NNPGs has asked the former to clearly state whether it is demanding acceptance of an ‘already drafted Naga constitution’ or the right to frame the constitution.
“It is a figment of imagination to think that Nagas would accept a constitution or Yehzabo that hinges on demolishing centuries old Naga heritage to give way to discarded political principles and philosophies which blinded failed dictators and despots in the last hundred years or so,” read a statement from the committee on Thursday.
It stated that a ‘Naga constitution’ must be drafted by a committee drawn from a pool of distinguished men and women from every tribe. “Has the Naga tribes converged and empowered their own very best brains to the Naga constitution drafting committee? Where is Naga constitution? Who drafted it?
“Naga people cannot accept alien document as Naga constitution. It will not serve the purpose. Whether GoI acknowledge or deny, the Naga Yehzabo will have to come from the people and till Naga tribes agree to scrutinise, sanction and approve it with absolute conviction, Naga Yehzabo or constitution, whoever claim to have ownership of it, has no landing ground. Younger generation Nagas will certainly question the wisdom of the leaders today if their future is again thrown into turmoil and conflict situation,” it stated.
According to the committee, during the 55 rounds of political negotiations between the NNPGs and government of India, the latter had accepted the ‘political and historical right of the Nagas to self determine their future in consonant with their distinct identity.’
“Absolute and sovereign rights of Nagas over certain competencies is clear. Nagas must also be prepared to understand contemporary political realities. The Indian leadership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm, with overwhelming mandate, has exhibited wisdom, maturity and commitment to solve the Indo-Naga political problem. All unresolved issues, both entities have agreed, shall be pursued through continuous democratic political process. What is honourable and acceptable today, Nagas must embrace for the sake of our children and our children's children,” it stated.
It also reminded that on February 29, 2012 at Agri Expo site in 4th Mile Dimapur, the NSCN (IM) leader Th Muivah had ‘admitted that sovereignty and Naga integration were not possible at the present time.’
“He clearly meant artificial boundaries will remain yet honourable and acceptable political solution also meant alternative political arrangement for Nagas in Manipur, Nagas in Arunachal and Nagas in Assam,” read the statement.
