Working Committee NNPGs leader hopeful after July 17 meeting with GoI interlocutor
G Naga, Kilonser of the GPRN/NSCN (Kitovi) and Secretary of the Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs), has said that the July 17, 2025 meeting with Government of India interlocutor AK Mishra was a vital “baby step” toward an inclusive and honourable solution to the Indo-Naga political issue.
In an exclusive interview with senior journalist Nirendra Dev, G Naga stressed that the 2017 “Agreed Position” signed between the NNPGs and the Centre laid a pragmatic and inclusive foundation, unlike earlier efforts shaped behind closed doors. “It was not a lone-wolf negotiation,” he said, adding that Tribal Hohos, civil society, GBs, and church leaders were constantly involved to ensure the voices of the people were represented throughout the process.
Reflecting on the status paper presented in 2017, G Naga stated that it carefully documented negotiated points rooted in Naga history and identity. “Negotiations can’t be done through oratory skills alone. We had to engage constitutional experts and record every matter meticulously,” he noted.
While cautious about optimism, G Naga underlined that the socio-political base for a solution has been reignited. He emphasized that India must uphold the agreed principles and show political will. “The Centre now has more clarity than ten years ago. We sense the pulse of both the villagers and those who benefited from statehood but curse the signatories,” he remarked.
Calling for broader participation, he said more Naga political entities are likely to join future deliberations. “Every Naga is deeply affected by the failure to arrive at a solution. The July 17 meeting is not hype—it’s progress,” he concluded.
G Naga warned, however, that saboteurs and vested interests could still derail the process. “History tells us we must stay vigilant,” he added. (Read the full interview here)
