‘RIIN is not in keeping with the socio-political interest of the Nagas’
Mokokchung, 24 August (MTNews): A significant “Consultative Meeting of Parliamentarians from Angami, Chakhesang, Rengma, and Pochury regions” was convened at Hotel Vivor, Kohima on Wednesday, a press release from the MIP of NSCN-IM received here said. The event was marked by thoughtful discussions and passionate appeals for unity, cooperation, and commitment within the Naga community while keeping the focus on the Naga political issue.
The mastermind behind the Consultative Meeting of Parliamentarians of all regions of NSCN/GPRN, Maj (Retd) Kewe Mero, Kilonser, addressed the attendees with a keynote that underlined the essence of the meeting. Maj Mero emphasized that the primary purpose of organizing such consultative sessions was to foster understanding among the various regions, ultimately strengthening unity and cooperation. He highlighted the Naga political issue as a focal point and stressed the importance of establishing a positive link with the public. Maj Mero also detailed the hierarchical structure of NSCN/GPRN, from Tatar to executive members of the Steering Committee.
Maj Mero’s passionate appeal to the members of Angami and Chakhesang resonated deeply, urging them to uphold the spirit of the guiding slogan “Nagaland for Christ” and embody the unique history of the Nagas through commitment and unity. “. His appeal draws significant importance as this meeting was held against the background of grumblings within the Angami and Chakhesang,” the press release said.
Lt. Gen (Retd.) VS Atem, VC, Member of the Collective Leadership, one of the main resource persons delivered his speech that drew from Acts 17: 26 of the Holy Bible. Quoting, “And He made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings,” Lt. Gen Atem emphasized the importance of seeking truth through faith.
Historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Sheikh Abdulla were invoked as examples of unwavering commitment to truth. Lt. Gen Atem drew parallels between their sacrifices and the Naga struggle. He highlighted the Naga historical figure Haipou Jadonang, who fearlessly resisted British rule, underscoring the significance of defending truth for land and identity.
Gen. Atem said that Nagas are not far behind in political consciousness as compared to the Indians, referencing historical instances of Naga resistance against British encroachment. He also underscored the fact that the Nagas declined to accede to India unlike other princely states of the Northeast and India, highlighting the distinctive historical truth of their resistance.
He also said NSCN was given UNPO membership on 23 January 1993 on the basis of this historical truth. He said Nagas under NNC signed the 1964 ceasefire to solve Naga political issue through peaceful means but it was abrogated by India and not by the Nagas. Until 1972, he said, Nagaland was under the Ministry of External Affairs but brought under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
He also said that Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, had “disdainfully uttered that he will finish the Nagas in a matter of few days. But the factual truth remains after more than seventy years.”
The Consultative Meeting also discussed concerns about potential exploitation of Naga mineral resources. Kihoi Swu, Kilonser was reported to have shared his concern that India may “play with the constitution of India to exploit the huge mineral resources in Naga areas.”
“He also touched on the truth of Framework Agreement of 3 August, 2023 and says that notwithstanding political shortsightedness of some group/people, there is no alternative to Framework Agreement. He also added that the Naga political issue was made known to the world for more than 70 years and no fault was found,” it said.
On the issue of Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN), Gen Atem and Brig (Retd.) Akho Naga, President, Tenyimia National Workers Forum “minced no words in stating that this is not in keeping with the socio-political interest of the Nagas and not going to be allowed.”
Education Kilonser Jongpong said, “We have to show ourselves unity, reconciliation spirit and commitment to win the public support and cooperation.”
Collective Leadership Member, Zarsie Nguthe encourages the Tenyimia national workers to take heart as the government has given them the prestigious post of Kilo Kilonser to Kewe Mero and Steering Committee Convener to KK Angami.
“This is the best opportune time for the Tenyimia workers to cooperate for the success of the Naga nation and not run away during this crucial time because it will be like running away from God since Nagalim and flag are gifts from God,” Nguthe said.