DIMAPUR, AUGUST 14: Deputy Ato Kilonser of the NSCN (IM), VS Atem, has called for stronger political engagement from the Government of India in the ongoing Indo-Naga peace talks, while reiterating the group’s demand for a ministerial-level interlocutor.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the 80th Naga Independence Day observance, Atem was asked about the reported violence in Langka Naga village in Kangpokpi district, claims of casualties involving NSCN (IM) cadres and Naga village guards. He said there was little control over adversaries, but questioned why such incidents should occur on a day significant to the Nagas.
Commenting on statements issued by the government and Naga political groups, Atem said anybody could make strong statements, but expressed hope that those issuing them would “live out according to their statement.”On whether disunity among Naga political groups sends a wrong message to the Government of India, Atem acknowledged that it does, while alleging that adversarial forces were behind the continuing divisions.
On the Nagaland Government’s demand for a ministerial-level interlocutor, Atem said the NSCN (IM) supports the demand. He clarified that the State Government was only facilitating the process and providing a boost to the talks.Atem maintained that the 2015 Framework Agreement is not the final settlement, stating that details and execution plans still need to be worked out before the agreement can be implemented.
On the principles governing the Indo-Naga dialogue, Atem reiterated the NSCN (IM)’s position that talks should be conducted without conditions, at the highest level and outside India. He said that if the Government of India was not sincere in adhering to those principles, the NSCN (IM) would continue to insist on holding the talks abroad.Atem explained that while the Prime Minister could not personally participate in every round of negotiations, the Naga side had earlier agreed to accept a representative of the Prime Minister as interlocutor.
However, he argued that the Naga political issue requires a political person to lead the Government of India’s side.On the Framework Agreement not being made fully public, Atem said the agreement itself is only about one page and that several issues relating to competencies remain under discussion. He maintained that when two entities are engaged in negotiations, all discussion points cannot be made public while the process is ongoing.
