NPF rejects WC-NNPG allegations over the oil MoU and peace process, urging unity for an inclusive Naga political solution.
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DIMAPUR — The Naga People's Front (NPF) on Monday called for unity and collective responsibility in pursuing an honourable and inclusive solution to the Naga political issue, while rejecting allegations made by the Working Committee of NNPG (WC-NNPG) regarding the recent oil exploration memorandum of understanding (MoU) and the party's role in the peace process.
In a statement, the NPF asserted that the Indo-Naga issue transcends individuals, organisations and political parties, and cautioned against creating further divisions through blame and criticism at a time when Nagas face larger challenges requiring unity and mature engagement.
Responding to the committee, the party dismissed as false allegations that it had prevented members of the Nagaland Gaon Bura Federation from meeting the prime minister.
“The NPF believes that Gaon Buras have specific duties related to village governance and customary administration. They should focus on these responsibilities within their given role. Getting involved in matters outside this role can cause unnecessary confusion,” the statement read.
It also rejected claims that it was responsible for the exit of former interlocutor RN Ravi, stating that the appointment, continuation or transfer of representatives of the government of India is solely the prerogative of the Centre.
According to the party, differing opinions expressed by tribal bodies, churches, civil society organisations and political parties during Ravi's tenure as governor and interlocutor were part of the normal democratic discourse surrounding the Naga peace process.
Also read: WC-NNPG opposes oil exploration until Naga political settlement is signed
WC-NNPG says NPF sabotaging Indo-Naga solution, opposes June 11 oil pact
Reiterating its position on political-level engagement, the NPF argued that the Naga issue requires intervention and decision-making at the highest political level rather than through routine administrative processes.
The party cited the consultative meeting on the Naga political issue convened by Nagaland government on September 12, 2024, during which tribal hohos, church organisations, civil society groups, student bodies, political parties, MPs, MLAs and other stakeholders unanimously resolved to urge the government of India to appoint an interlocutor of political or ministerial rank with full authority to advance the peace process.
The NPF maintained that the resolution reflected the collective voice of Naga society rather than the position of any individual organisation or leader.
It further stated that the meeting had appealed for unity among all sections of Naga society and resolved to discourage factionalism within the Naga political movement.
On concerns surrounding the recent MoU on oil exploration, the party acknowledged public apprehensions regarding ownership and management of natural resources but stressed that the matter must be viewed in the context of the decades-old Assam-Nagaland boundary dispute.
The NPF pointed out that oil and mineral exploration in disputed areas predates the signing of the MoU and said it would be inaccurate to attribute the issue solely to the recent agreement.
It argued that questions concerning territorial jurisdiction, resource ownership and competing claims have existed for decades and require a broader historical understanding.
The party also welcomed ongoing efforts by the governments of Nagaland and Assam to resolve the boundary dispute through dialogue and constitutional mechanisms, urging stakeholders to support constructive engagement rather than politicise sensitive issues.
“Since the government of India has officially recognised the Indo-Naga issue as a political issue needing a political solution, the NPF believes the younger generation should engage with it seriously and constructively.
“Differences of opinion are natural. But the long history of sacrifice and hope linked to the Naga movement calls for informed understanding, not anger,” it stated.
The party further expressed concern over the security situation in Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur, referring to the recent killing of six Naga civilians.
It stated that Naga political groups should prioritise the protection of Naga villages and communities while political negotiations continue.
Appealing to all stakeholders, including Naga political groups, tribal hohos, church bodies, civil society organisations and political parties, the NPF urged greater unity, mutual respect and collective responsibility in advancing the peace process.
"The Naga people do not want endless debate. They want a just, honourable, acceptable and inclusive political solution that protects their history, identity, rights and future," the statement read.