The NSCN/GPRN (Niki) has clarified that it has not aligned with the NNPGs or their Agreed Position, amid rumours circulating in certain circles. The group stated that a recent statement issued by the NNPGs regarding Gen. Niki Sumi (Retd.) should not be interpreted as reflecting a shared political stance.
“Without our knowledge, the NNPGs issued a statement about Gen. Niki Sumi (Retd.) which should not be misconstrued in any way as being in the same page when it comes to our political stance; NSCN/GPRN is neutral and equidistant from Framework Agreement and Agreed Position,” the group stated in a press statement issued by its MIP.
The statement criticized the Government of India’s approach, describing its “new found love of character assassinations” as “laughable at best” and asserted that Naga political rights cannot be erased or suppressed.
“Naga political rights cannot be erased or bullied into submission. History is a testament to the resilience of the Nagas,” it maintained.
The NSCN/GPRN (Niki) stated that the GoI should have the political will to be sincere in the political talks rather than trying to revert back to history of violence and warned that the “Carrot and Stick” policy of the Government of India would only strengthen their resolve to “fight back tooth and nail for our historical and political rights.”
It reaffirmed its commitment to a political settlement that includes all stakeholders, declaring that it has taken a “Sacred Oath to the Almighty God to protect and defend the Nagas and refuses to succumb to the cheap gimmicks of GoI.”