Nagas had missed resolving the vexed “Indo-Naga political issue” three times but this time the chance should not be missed, said NSCN (I-M) steering committee member Rev. A Puni Mao. He also said that 80% of the issue has already been resolved while the remaining 20% was hinged on “shared sovereignty”

Rev. Puni was addressing the 65th Naga Martyrs’ Anniversary held at Mao Gate Town Coucnil Hall Tuesday. He also revealed that the collective leadership would be holding consultative meetings with all the tribal hohos before the final solution was arrived at adding that NSCN (I-M) had already held consultative meets with Ao and Angami tribes and the response was “very positive”.

Rev. Puni also said that the British had offered the Nagas a “princely colony” and also a Bhutan like status which the Nagas had then rejected. He stated that in those days, the Meiteis were at “their deep slumber” and the “whole Naga struggle started from Mao”.

Referring to Government of India’s response to the Naga issue, he said that the BJP led NDA government had recognized the unique history of the Nagas and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi during the recent meeting spoke around six minutes admitting her seriousness in resolving the Naga issue.

On current dialogue
Commenting on the ongoing dialogue between NSCN (I-M) and Government of India, Rev. Puni said that almost 80% of the issue has been resolved while the rest 20% were based on “shared sovereignty”. As of now, with no seaport or airport, Nagas might have to go for an “inter-dependent” solution he said.

Reiterating that Nagas should not miss the bus this time, Rev. Puni said this time it would be for the “good of the Nagas”. He also revealed that the issue of “Pan-Naga” also dealt with issues of distribution of funds for development but refused to divulge further.

Alternative Arrangement not a political term: Daili
Chief guest M Daili stated that the Mao people would be remembered in the history of the Nagas if they made sacrifices and contributions adding that this was not a time to retreat but to contribute and march forward.

On the demand for alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur, he reminded the issue should not be “contaminated” with the ongoing Naga political dialogue.

“Alternative Arrangement is not a political term but Government of India wants that the same is spelt out clearly which the Nagas of Manipur have not done yet because it includes all the terms and conditions and modalities. So far there had been four talks and the fifth talk will take place tomorrow (Tuesday)”, he added.

The function was chaired by MNWWA president Pf Losa and it began with the laying of wreaths by different organizations including Mao Council, Mao Students’ Union, Mao Officers’ Union and Mao Naga Women Welfare Association.