Nagaland Chief Minister Reaffirms Naga Issue as a Political Matter
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has strongly reiterated that the long-standing Naga issue remains fundamentally a political matter, necessitating dialogue at the highest levels of government. He noted that the Central government has responded positively to this approach, signaling a constructive path forward.
Addressing the Naga Political Issue at Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival
Rio made these remarks during his address at the Lui-Ngai-Ni 2026 celebrations, the traditional seed-sowing festival of the Nagas. The event was held at the Ukhrul headquarters ground on Sunday under the theme "Cultural Renaissance." This two-day festival successfully brought together a diverse gathering of leaders, elders, youth, and representatives from various Naga-inhabited areas, fostering unity and cultural pride.
Reflecting on the Naga political negotiations, Rio recalled that after decades of discussions, two significant agreements were signed: the Framework Agreement in 2015 and the "Agreed Position" in 2017. "Nearly a decade has passed since the Framework Agreement, and eight years since the agreed position, yet a final settlement has not been reached. Until settlement comes, the process is alive," he stated, emphasizing that detailed discussions are continuing clause by clause to resolve outstanding issues.
Recent Developments and Central Government Engagement
Rio provided an update on recent efforts, recounting that a delegation from Nagaland's Political Affairs Committee met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on February 5. During this meeting, they apprised him of a resolution adopted on September 12, 2024, during a consultative meeting. This resolution, which garnered widespread support, was endorsed by 61 Naga organizations, including:
- Tribal bodies
- Civil society groups
- Churches
- Senior citizens
- Gazetted officers
- Student groups
- Women's organizations
With 226 signatories backing the demand, the resolution explicitly called for political-level dialogue to address the Naga issue. Rio reported that Shah responded positively, agreeing that the matter should indeed be discussed at the political level, which aligns with the state's persistent advocacy.
Festival Highlights and Political Unity
During the Lui-Ngai-Ni celebrations, Rio unveiled a commemorative monolith at the Ukhrul headquarters, symbolizing cultural heritage and resilience. He also extended congratulations to Manipur's newly appointed Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho of the Naga People's Front (NPF), describing his elevation as a significant matter of pride for both the party and the Naga community at large.
Rio emphasized that unity among leaders and communities has been instrumental in driving a positive political shift at both the state and central levels. This collective effort, he asserted, is crucial for advancing the dialogue and achieving a lasting settlement for the Naga people. The ongoing engagement and festive spirit at the event underscored the community's hope and determination for a peaceful resolution through sustained political negotiations.
