Naga Students' Federation Issues Stern Warning on Political Discourse
The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) issued a significant caution on Friday, stating that "unguarded statements, mutual accusations, and public finger-pointing" regarding the long-standing Naga political issue could potentially further complicate and escalate the situation at this critical juncture. The student body expressed serious concern over the frequent remarks made by various individuals and groups through media channels, acknowledging the enthusiasm and genuine concerns of those who yearn for an early and honourable solution.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
This warning comes in the wake of a significant meeting held on Thursday, where several senior leaders of Nagaland convened at former Chief Minister S C Jamir's farmhouse in Chumoukedima. During this gathering, leaders deliberated extensively on the Naga political issue and called for its early resolution, specifically within the context of two crucial agreements:
- The Framework Agreement with NSCN (I-M) signed on August 3, 2015
- The Agreed Position with the working committee of the Naga National Political Groups on November 17, 2017
Call for Unity and Collective Purpose
The NSF emphasized that "at this crucial moment in our history, the need of the hour is unity" — specifically unity of purpose, unity of vision, and unity of the Naga people as a whole. The federation stressed that the Naga political issue transcends beyond Nagaland's borders, describing it as a historical and political question that encompasses all Nagas living beyond what they term "artificial and imposed territorial boundaries."
Core Demands and Political Will
In their statement, the NSF made several important appeals and clarifications:
- Call for sincerity and political will from the Central government in addressing the Naga political question
- Appeal to all Naga political groups to come together in unity, maturity, and mutual respect to hammer out a lasting and honourable settlement
- Reiteration that any agreement reached without addressing the core issues of territorial integration and the political identity of the Naga homeland would be incomplete
- Affirmation that the movement will continue until the collective aspiration of the Nagas to live under one political umbrella is fully realized
The NSF's statement represents a significant intervention in the ongoing discourse surrounding the Naga political issue, highlighting the delicate balance between expressing legitimate concerns and maintaining constructive dialogue. The federation's emphasis on unity and careful political discourse reflects the complex nature of negotiations that have spanned decades, involving multiple stakeholders with varying perspectives and interests.
