A Chingmak Chang, President of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO), reaffirmed his commitment to the people of ENPO amidst ongoing discussions surrounding the group’s demand for statehood. “I will never betray my people,” Chang declared. Chang was speaking during the Mungmung Festival of the Sangtam Nagas in Kiphire on Tuesday.
During his remarks, Chang referenced the statement made by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio during the 15 August celebration, in which the Chief Minister spoke of an “open door policy” to resolve the ENPO issue.
Expressing optimism, Chang noted that this approach could lead to a positive resolution through fruitful negotiations and mutual understanding between the state government, ENPO, and the Eastern Nagaland Legislators’ Union (ENLU). He added that the outcome of these discussions would be presented to the Ministry of Home Affairs, followed by tripartite talks involving the Government of India, the state government, and ENPO.
Chang also touched on the longstanding demand for statehood, which began in 2010, stating that the demand remains very much alive. However, he suggested that Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) could serve as a temporary solution for ENPO as the group continues to pursue its ultimate goal.
“Our talk is in an advanced stage, though we cannot give any timeframe. Therefore, let us have hope for a time when all eight tribes of ENPO will celebrate a common festival,” the president added.