NSCN (I-M) Urges PM to Honor 2015 Naga Pact

Why in the news?

The NSCN (I-M) has urged PM Modi to uphold the 2015 Framework Agreement, rejecting its comparison with the 2017 Agreed Position. The group praised MPs for seeking updates on the Naga peace process and warned against escalating tensions in the region.

NSCN (I-M) Urges PM to Honor 2015 Naga Pact

Framework Agreement vs. Agreed Position:

  • NSCN (I-M) asserts that its 2015 Framework Agreement with the Centre should not be equated with the 2017 Agreed Position signed with the NNPGs.
  • It claims the Agreed Position is merely a modification of Article 371A of the Indian Constitution, crafted by Indian agencies.
  • The NSCN (I-M) states that the peace negotiations with NNPGs concluded in October 2019, making it difficult to align both agreements.

Political Developments and Parliamentary Oversight

  • The group appreciated 21 MPs who recently urged Home Minister Amit Shah to provide an update on the Naga peace process in Parliament.
  • The MPs emphasized that the process should not be left to bureaucratic maneuvering and must have democratic oversight.
  • NSCN (I-M) noted that there has been no full-time interlocutor for negotiations since 2021.
  • The group questioned the Centre’s sincerity in honoring its commitments under the Framework Agreement.

Call for Resolution and Stability

  • NSCN (I-M) urged PM Narendra Modi to uphold the Framework Agreement, which includes demands for a separate flag and constitution for Nagas.
  • It accused certain Naga MPs of undermining the Naga cause.
  • Highlighting Nagalim’s geopolitical importance, the group warned of potential unrest if the issue remains unresolved.
  • NSCN (I-M) called for the logical conclusion of the agreement to ensure lasting peace in the region.

Naga Insurgency and NSCN (I-M) Demands:

Background & Framework Agreement

  • Naga insurgency dates back to 1946 with the formation of the Naga National Council (NNC).
  • The 1975 Shillong Accord led to the split of NNC, forming NSCN (I-M) and NSCN (K) in 1980.
  • 2015 Framework Agreement aimed to resolve the issue but lacked clarity on sovereignty and autonomy.

Key Demands & Issues

  • NSCN (I-M) demands a separate Naga flag and constitution.
  • Disagreements exist over sharing sovereign power and autonomy for Naga tribes.
  • Article 370’s removal weakened NSCN (I-M)’s position.

Challenges & Mediation Proposal

  • Trust deficit with Indian government, worsened by 2017 NNPGs deal.
  • Poorly drafted agreement led to conflicting interpretations.
  • NSCN (I-M) seeks third-party mediation to ensure fair resolution and prevent renewed conflict.