Context:
Recently, The Union Government has extended the ceasefire agreement with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland/K-Khango & NSCN (Reformation) for one year.
- Extended for One Year: They have mutually decided to extend the ceasefire agreement with effect from the 18th of April, 2024 for one year to bring about a lasting peace in Nagaland with the involvement of Naga people.
- Ceasefire Ground Rules: The Ceasefire Ground Rules will be subject to mutual review and amendment with the involvement of three parties.
- Breakaway factions of NSCN-IM and NSCN-K: National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Reformation (NSCN-R) and National Socialist Council of Nagaland-K-Khango are the breakaway factions of NSCN (Isak-Muivah)and NSCN (Khaplang)signed the ceasefire agreements with the government over the years.
Background of Naga Peace Talks
- Objective: To resolve historical disputes dating back to colonial rule through ongoing discussions between the Indian government and Naga insurgent groups, particularly the NSCN(IM), with the goal of reaching a Naga Peace Accord.
- Previous Engagements: In 1997, the NSCN (IM) initiated a ceasefire with the Indian government, sparking optimism for a final resolution.
Current Stalemate
- Demands of Naga Groups: Naga groups primarily advocate for the establishment of Greater Nagalim, the enlargement of Nagalim beyond the existing boundaries of the Nagaland state(portions of neighboring states and even areas within Myanmar).
- Disagreements on Symbolic Issues Stalemate on Flag and Constitution: The NSCN(IM) remains adamant on these demands.
- Interpretation of Framework Agreement: Ambiguities within the Framework Agreement (FA) have led to subjective interpretations by both parties, allowing for selective understanding based on their respective interests.
- Challenges Amidst Violence: Inter-Party Clashes, Pre-Poll Violence during Elections.
- Impact of Manipur Violence: Recent Violent Clashes between Kuki & Meitei groups also raise the issue of more sovereignty for the Naga Groups.
Current Progress/Development
- Facilitator for Talks Appointment of Governor as well as Interlocutor RN Ravi , IB Officer A.K. Mishra & Governor La Ganeshan: for facilitating the peace talks.
- Cease Fire Agreements between the Naga Groups
- Scrapping of Free Movement Regime:
- Free Movement Regime: It was a mutually agreed arrangement between India & Myanmar that allows tribes living along the border on either side to travel up to 16 km inside the other country without a visa.
- After scrapping the FMR,it will reduce Illegal Migration, Drug Trafficking & Other Security Concerns.
- Proposal for Autonomous Frontier Naga Territory
- Initiative by the Centre: In response to the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization’s request for a distinct state, the government has proposed the establishment of an autonomous Frontier Naga Territory, encompassing six eastern districts of the state.
- Recognition of Government Efforts: The governor has expressed appreciation for the steps taken by the central government to address the concerns and grievances of the residents of eastern Nagaland.
Way Ahead
Consistent policy-making, prolonged talks for conflict resolution in the northeast, regardless of the ruling government & prioritising infrastructure development, especially roads and power.
Opening up the region will allow its people to access modern amenities and utilize its natural resources for their betterment.
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News Source: AIR
March 8, 2024