The organising committee of the Nagaland Common Platform has clarified that its November 18 public gathering is not intended to undermine or run parallel to the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), following concerns raised by the Nagaland Tribal Hoho Council Committee (NTHCC) about “parallel efforts” in the ongoing reconciliation process.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the committee said the FNR’s “religious and healing approach” to fostering unity among Naga political groups (NPGs) remains deeply respected and has been “vital across the years.”
“The misunderstandings among tribal leaders regarding the Common Platform initiated by the NGBF and apex civil bodies – that it undermines or runs parallel to the FNR’s efforts – stem from a misreading of on the ground realities,” it stated.
According to the organisers, the Common Platform initiative emerged in response to prolonged stagnation in negotiations and an indefinite peace process that has placed “a heavy burden on the people.”
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It maintained that FNR’s reconciliation efforts and the Common Platform’s call for political clarity are “complementary towards the same objective.”
The committee added that it holds “no prejudice or hidden agenda,” nor any intent to challenge any authority. “The scheduled public gathering is a mere act in open to fill up the overdue hiatus of silence on demand for political solution,” the statement read.
It further stated that the two negotiating groups have already completed their positions for a final agreement, and that “the authority lies with the government of India to deliver an inclusive and comprehensive solution based on the gentlemen’s agreements.”
Responding indirectly to the NTHCC’s recent caution, the organisers acknowledged the concerns but urged tribal leaders to rise above divisions and join what they described as a “people’s movement.” Stakeholder participation, it said, is necessary to prepare the “landing ground” for an eventual settlement.
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Reiterating the urgency, the committee added: “We have reached the stage – ‘If not now, then when.’” It appealed to all tribes and stakeholders to participate in the November 18 platform and “decide for ourselves what future we want for the Nagas.”
The public platform will be held on November 18 at 10 am at Agri Expo, Chümoukedima.
