Recent signals from both Kohima and New Delhi suggest the long-stalled Naga political process may be entering a more active phase, with Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio confirming that the Centre has agreed to restore engagement at the political and ministerial level following his February 3 meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Addressing party leaders during a reception program on Wednesday at the NPF office in Chümoukedima, Rio said the state was represented by a Political Affairs sub-committee rather than the full Cabinet or all MLAs. He said discussions covered constitutional provisions, the Naga flag and integration issues, with assurances that the “letter and spirit” of earlier understandings would remain the foundation of engagement.
According to Rio, the Home Minister agreed to constitute a committee comprising officials and intelligence representatives to continue the dialogue process at the political level.
Referring to differing public statements by certain leaders and groups, including those associated with former Chief Minister Dr SC Jamir, Rio said differences are part of democracy but cautioned against weakening the state’s collective negotiating position. He said contradictory signals could create confusion during dialogue with the Centre and stressed that unity of approach is important at this stage.
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Reiterating that immediate physical integration of Naga areas may not be feasible, Rio emphasised emotional, cultural and social integration through a pan-Naga platform involving Nagas from Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam is achievable and essential for a durable settlement.
He said the PAC would continue engagement with Naga national groups and urged party leaders to strengthen the organisation at all levels. Continued engagement with New Delhi and outreach to neighbouring states would remain key priorities, he added.
NPF Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon said the delegation reiterated that the Naga political issue is “not a law and order matter” and pressed for restoring talks to the political track. He added that the party remains committed to an honourable and peaceful solution beyond the 16-Point Agreement and statehood framework.
Centre appoints Ajit Lal as Northeast Advisor, to oversee Naga peace process
In a related development, the Centre has appointed retired IPS officer Ajit Lal as the Northeast Advisor to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, according to a report by The Hindu. Lal, a former Chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee and ex-Special Director of the Intelligence Bureau (2008–2011), replaces AK Mishra, who had held the post since 2021. He is expected to oversee the Naga peace process and continue engagement with Kuki-Zo and Meitei insurgent groups in Manipur.
Lal had earlier led Naga political talks between March and July 2014 and was also present during the signing of the tripartite Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority agreement involving the ENPO, the Nagaland government and the MHA.
