The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of ‘running away’ from the Framework Agreement (FA) in its latest editorial in its mouthpiece, Nagalim Voice. It also highlighted the ‘bitter truth’ that Narendra Modi has yet to utter a word on the matter as he begins his third term as Prime Minister.
The editorial claims that Modi’s failure to act on the FA has severely damaged his credibility, with Nagas expressing anger over what they perceive as “broken words”. The NSCN-IM asserted that Modi has done nothing that goes beyond the ritual agreement speech.
“Truly, he accepted the political identity of the Nagas with sovereign rights. But he simply couldn’t have the spine to stand by his convictions,” it added, asking, “But how long is he going to play his game of delay tactics, while the world keeps watching him with amazement!”
The NSCN-IM emphasized that the ceasefire agreement with the Government of India was made to protect the historical and political rights of the Nagas, and the FA was seen as a crucial step toward fulfilling this pledge. The process, spanning five years to acknowledge the unique history of the Nagas and an additional 13 years to sign the FA, was considered a milestone achievement towards resolving the longstanding Naga political issue.
The editorial recalled Modi’s “uncontrollable excitement” when the FA was signed, highlighting the high-profile ceremony and his claims of having resolved the Naga issue, the longest political movement in South Asia. Modi reportedly called up the leaders of all major political parties in India to let them know that he has outscored them by solving the Naga issue. However, the NSCN-IM argues that in reality he simply wants to “claim the credit in hurry when it’s not due”.
“A man in a hurry without action as his promises vanished in thin air after the dust of the high-profile ceremony settled down in his courtyard,” it added.
The Framework Agreement was signed on 3 August 2015 between the Government of India and the NSCN-IM. The Government’s interlocutor for Naga Peace Talks, RN Ravi signed it on behalf of the Government of India, whereas Lt. Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman and Thuingaleng Muivah, General Secretary signed on behalf of the NSCN, in presence of the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. Union Home Minister, Rajnath Singh, National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, and other high dignitaries of the Government of India were also present.
