Mokokchung, 1 September (MTNews): The NSCN-IM has expressed its discontent over a security check conducted by the 43rd Assam Rifles on 29 August 2023. The incident occurred when the Assam Rifles intercepted a Bolero vehicle carrying two NSCN-IM members en route to the Hebron Camp/Council Headquarters. During the check, the Assam Rifles discovered around Rs 10 lakh in their possession.
In a press release, the NSCN-IM stated that they, particularly the Naga Army, strongly objected to what they considered an “overbearing” approach by the Assam Rifles. They emphasized that such an approach has never been in good taste for the NSCN.
The NSCN-IM mentioned that they have been engaged in the Indo-Naga political talks since 1997 and it is because of the “spirit of the ceasefire” and to sustain the ongoing political dialogue, the NSCN has been “patiently bearing with all the inconveniences and incendiary behavior of Indian Security Forces.”
This incident adds to the recent strain in the relationship between the NSCN-IM and the Assam Rifles, with allegations of fake arrests and false accusations. The NSCN-IM has in multiple times recently accused the Assam Rifles of attempting to tarnish their global image by creating “extremely dramatic situations.”
It’s worth noting that the Government of India (GoI) and NSCN -IM resumed formal peace negotiations on 23 August and on 25 August 2023. Sources involved in the negotiations have revealed that the Indian government is willing to address the demand for a separate flag. However, discussions regarding the constitution remain a point of contention.
Thuingaleng Muivah, the NSCN-IM general secretary, emphasized the inseparable connection between the flag and constitution and their significance to the sovereignty of a people during his 77th Naga Independence Day speech on 14 August. He has urged Indian leaders to acknowledge this truth and take a principled stance in the negotiations.
According to reports in the Hindustan Times, the meetings between the two sides had to be suspended as AK Mishra, advisor to the MHA, had to direct his attention to the Manipur.