NSF warns against divisive statements, urges unity and political will to achieve an inclusive, honourable settlement to the Naga issue.
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DIMAPUR — The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) on Friday expressed concern over what it called frequent unguarded public statements and finger-pointing by various individuals and groups on the Naga political issue.
In a press release, the federation stated that while it recognises the enthusiasm and genuine desire among people for an early and honourable settlement, “mutual accusations” and public blame could further complicate and escalate the situation.
Stressing that unity is the “need of the hour”, the NSF called for unity of purpose, vision and people, cautioning that internal divisions could undermine a collective struggle carried forward through generations of sacrifice.
It reiterated that the Naga political issue is not confined to Nagaland alone but is a historical and political question encompassing all Nagas living beyond “artificial and imposed territorial boundaries.”
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The federation stated that past agreements had failed because core issues were deliberately ignored, leading to mistrust, suffering and derailment of the peace process.
Rejecting piecemeal solutions, it added that fragmented approaches would never be acceptable to the Naga people. It expressed concern that the younger generation has inherited the consequences of past political failures and urged leaders and opinion-makers to exercise restraint and responsibility.
While acknowledging the existence of diverse schools of thought, the NSF cautioned against regionalism, factionalism and divisive narratives, asserting that since there is only one Naga political issue, there must be only one solution for all Nagas.
The federation further maintained that any political agreement must be transparent, inclusive and accountable to the Naga people.
Recalling the consultative meeting convened by Nagaland government on September 12, 2024, the NSF said that all stakeholders, including joint signatories endorsed by both Members of Parliament from Nagaland, had resolved to appeal to the government of India to elevate the peace process to the highest political level.
The federation questioned the state government on the steps taken to pursue that resolution and urged it to uphold the decision, which it said reflected the collective will of all stakeholders.
The NSF appealed to the government of India to demonstrate sincerity and political will, and called upon all Naga political groups to come together in unity, maturity and mutual respect to work towards a lasting and honourable settlement.