Final agreement expected before Christmas: Zeliang

DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 9 (MExN): Leader of Opposition, TR Zeliang said Nagas can expect to see the inking of the final agreement to the Indo-Naga peace talks before Christmas of 2019. 

“We hope and believe that 70 years of struggle and 22 years of negotiation between Government of India (GoI) and Naga negotiating groups will come to a logical conclusion very soon which is expected to be a big Christmas gift to all of us along with the message of real peace,” Zeliang said while addressing the 50 years celebration of St. Xavier Higher Secondary School, Jalukie on November 9. 

'Nagas have struggled with armed conflict for more than 7 decades which has created a critical gap in every sphere, be it politically, socially, economically or educationally,' he said in his message, released to the media here.  

He also observed that the Naga people could pass through a crucial crossroad that was October 31 dateline set by GoI with NSCN (IM) on solution to Naga protracted political issu, it said. 

While the Nagas might have just crossed the critical junction, Zeliang said the journey is yet to be completed  and permanent peace can be ushered in only on the day of the inking of the final agreement where all the Naga political groups should be included, it added.  

Also harping on the uniqueness of Naga history, Zeliang suggested that all schools and colleges should have a cultural competition in every annual conference class-wise or group wise in order to preserve and promote one’s unique culture and identity.