MHA says negotiations with Naga groups are at "advanced stage"

NEW DELHI: G Kishan Reddy, the Minister of State (MoS) in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) yesterday informed the Parliament that negotiations with Naga groups are at an "advanced stage." However, no time frame for agreement can be indicated at this stage, Reddy said.

 

“Negotiations with Naga Groups are at an advanced stage. However, no timeframe for Agreement can be indicated at this stage,” Reddy said in response to an unstarred question in the Lok Sabha by Nagaland MP Tokheho Yepthom.

 

The MP had asked about the status of the progress in the negotiations between the Government of India and the Naga groups, whether the agreement is likely to be signed this year and if so, the details thereof.

 

Recently, National Socialist Council for Nagalim—Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) chair Q Tuccu, on the occasion of its 42nd Raising Day told its members to be on “guard” as the GoI is “yet to get serious and honest with the Nagas” regarding the ongoing Naga peace talk.

 

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“Nagas are being taken as if they are purchasable commercial commodities. But God forbid that things should go wrong in the peace process,” the chairman stated.

 

He expressed hope that the Centre will honour the lofty commitments made by former Prime Ministers.

 

The peace talks have run into rough weather, with the Centre refusing to yield to the NSCN's demand of a separate flag and a Constitution for the Naga people.

 

Meanwhile, Niki Sumi, the President of a breakaway faction of the NSCN (K) is in talks with the Political Affairs Mission (PAM) of the Naga People's Front (NPF). Both groups are now batting for "one solution" that is inclusive of all Nagas.