A group of former lawmakers from Nagaland has called on the central government to expedite the process of finalizing a common draft for a lasting political solution to the Naga issue. The demand, made by influential former political leaders, underscores the urgency with which the people of Nagaland seek a comprehensive and inclusive resolution to the long-standing conflict that has shaped the region’s history for decades.
Nagaland has been at the center of a prolonged political struggle, with various Naga groups, primarily the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN), seeking greater autonomy or independence for the Naga people. The peace talks, which began in the late 1990s, have seen numerous rounds of negotiations, but a definitive and mutually acceptable solution has remained elusive. Amidst this backdrop, the former lawmakers’ recent demand highlights both the frustration and hope for a conclusion to the political impasse.
The Demand for a Common Draft
The former lawmakers’ call is directed at the central government to present a “common draft” for the Naga solution. This draft would be the culmination of extensive consultations between the Naga insurgent groups, the Naga civil society organizations, and the Government of India. While a framework agreement was signed in 2015 between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM), which is one of the largest insurgent factions, a final agreement has been pending due to disagreements over key issues, including the Naga flag and constitution, which have been central to the demands of the Naga leadership.
The lawmakers have expressed concern that the delays in finalizing a draft agreement are not only prolonging the uncertainty but are also exacerbating the tensions in the state. They argue that the time has come for all stakeholders, including the Naga groups, the state government, and the Centre, to come together and forge a consensus that respects the aspirations of the Naga people while maintaining the territorial integrity of India.
A Step Towards Resolving Decades of Conflict
Nagaland has been embroiled in conflict for over seven decades, with the Naga insurgency dating back to 1947, soon after India gained independence. The demand for an independent Naga state or greater autonomy has been at the heart of the issue, leading to numerous rounds of negotiations, ceasefires, and peace processes. Despite multiple agreements and promises of resolution, the situation has remained precarious.
The peace talks gained significant momentum after the signing of the 2015 Framework Agreement, which was hailed as a historic step forward. However, the failure to reach a final agreement in the years since has left many Naga leaders and citizens frustrated, leading to calls for the central government to present a clear, final draft that could put an end to the deadlock.
The former lawmakers, including former members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly and former parliamentarians, argue that the solution must be one that addresses the concerns of all Naga people, including those living outside Nagaland in neighboring states like Manipur, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh. These states also have significant Naga populations, and the political future of the Naga people must take into account the interests of all communities, not just those within the borders of Nagaland.
Political Impasse and Frustration
The delay in finalizing a political solution has created a sense of frustration among the people of Nagaland, particularly given the promises made during earlier rounds of peace talks. The former lawmakers’ demand reflects the growing impatience within the state. With ongoing calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, they believe that a political solution is the only way forward for the region’s stability and development.
Nagaland has faced significant challenges in terms of economic development and security due to the prolonged insurgency. The state’s economy is heavily dependent on central government funds, and infrastructure development has been hampered by the ongoing instability. The uncertainty surrounding the political situation has also deterred investment and hindered social progress. The former lawmakers argue that finalizing the Naga solution will provide the region with the stability and political certainty necessary for growth and development.
The Role of Civil Society and Other Stakeholders
In addition to the Naga political groups and the central government, civil society organizations in Nagaland have played a crucial role in advocating for peace and a fair political solution. Organizations such as the Naga Hoho, which represents the Naga tribes, and various church groups have been actively involved in the peace process. These groups have emphasized the need for a solution that is inclusive and takes into account the diverse voices of the Naga community, including women, youth, and indigenous groups.
The former lawmakers have also pointed out that the Naga peace process cannot be seen in isolation from the broader context of peacebuilding and reconciliation within the region. The solution must promote healing and address the trauma caused by decades of conflict and violence. This means that the process should involve dialogues that extend beyond the political leaders and engage with local communities, ensuring that the final solution reflects the collective aspirations of the Naga people.
The Road Ahead
As the pressure mounts for the central government to finalize a common draft for the Naga solution, all eyes are now on the next steps in the peace process. The demand from former lawmakers signals a critical juncture in the Naga peace talks. There is widespread hope that the final draft will not only address the long-standing political aspirations of the Naga people but also pave the way for peace and development in the region.
For Nagaland, the finalization of a political solution would mark the end of a chapter of strife and uncertainty. It would offer a chance for a new beginning, one that promotes unity, prosperity, and peace. The government must act decisively to bring all parties to the table and work towards an agreement that ensures justice, equity, and respect for the unique identity of the Naga people.
In the coming months, it will be crucial for the central government to take concrete steps toward the resolution of this long-standing issue, and for all stakeholders to engage in dialogue with a spirit of compromise, understanding, and commitment to peace. The Naga solution, when finalized, will be a historic achievement, ending decades of conflict and bringing the region into a new era of peace and prosperity.
