The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-Isak Muivah) has launched a scathing critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing his government of evading a resolution to the long-standing Naga issue. In a recent statement published in their mouthpiece, Nagalim Voice, the NSCN-IM claimed that Modi has failed to address the final resolution of their decade-long peace talks, despite his enthusiastic promises when the "Framework Agreement" was signed in 2015.
The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-Isak Muivah) has launched a scathing critique of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing his government of evading a resolution to the long-standing Naga issue. In a recent statement published in their mouthpiece, Nagalim Voice, the NSCN-IM claimed that Modi has failed to address the final resolution of their decade-long peace talks, despite his enthusiastic promises when the “Framework Agreement” was signed in 2015.
The NSCN-IM asserted that Modi had initially presented the signing of the Framework Agreement as a major achievement, boasting about it to political leaders and the public. However, the group now accuses Modi of merely seeking credit without delivering on his commitments. They argue that Modi’s inability to act on the agreement has severely damaged his credibility, leaving Nagas disillusioned with his broken promises.
The Framework Agreement, signed on August 3, 2015, was intended to address the Naga political issue, one of South Asia’s longest-running conflicts. Despite the high-profile ceremony and initial excitement, a final resolution remains elusive. The NSCN-IM has insisted on demands for the integration of Naga-inhabited areas (including parts of Manipur and Assam), and the creation of a separate flag and constitution for the Nagas. The central government has rejected these demands, offering only limited concessions such as the use of the Naga flag during cultural events.
The deadlock in negotiations has persisted, with the NSCN-IM and other Naga groups expressing frustration over the lack of progress. The Indian government’s interlocutor, former Intelligence Bureau Special Director AK Mishra, has held numerous rounds of talks, but a conclusive agreement has yet to be reached.
The NSCN-IM, which led an insurgency in the northeast before entering into a ceasefire in 1997, continues to press for a solution that acknowledges the unique history and sovereignty of the Naga people. The current impasse highlights the challenges of reconciling historical grievances with contemporary political realities.
In the wake of these developments, the NSCN-IM remains resolute in its demands, urging the Indian government to fulfill its promises and provide a lasting resolution to the Naga issue. The ongoing negotiations are seen as critical to achieving peace in the region, with both sides under intense scrutiny as they navigate this complex and sensitive conflict.