Peace and reconciliation process, which began with Ceasefire Agreement between GoI and NSCN (IM) in 1997 and NSCN (K) in 2001, had started bearing fruits of progress and development. Since March this year after abrogation of ceasefire by NSCN (K) the cycle of violence in the region has once again raised its hydra head.
It saddens the heart when so many lives are lost, young insurgents who should be attending schools and colleges, security forces personnel who should be managing law and order and curbing criminal activities and finally the innocent public stuck in the crossfire. All this violence for whose benefit? Apparently it appears that the peace does not suit some, who carry out illegal exploitation of natural resources; unabated taxation in areas under their control.The peace accord of 03 Aug between GoI and NSCN (IM) though being a framework agreement towards peaceful resolution has provided a tentative hope for a better future. But for, the abrogation of Ceasefire by NSCN (K) and formation of United National Liberation Front of West South East Asia (UNLFWSEA), seems to be the biggest stumbling block towards peace. The young gullible and innocent are still being pushed towards the jungle to adopt the path of violence. The silent majority is yearning for peace yet a small section of the society wants to maintain the vitiated environment for their personal petty gains.
Having lived, observed and studied in the region for more than two decades it pains to once again see the devil at work. It is time to ponder and realise for all of us, the stake holders, that has any goal ever been achieved by violence for the common good. Whatever has been achieved has been through peace process and reconciliation.
Joshua Moses
