Says unity of approach means sharing common values and working towards a collective destiny
Dimapur, November 29 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) Chairman, Q Tuccu underscored that strategic planning and internal unity are “critically important” for the Naga political movement while pointing out the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR)’s failure “to establish a unifying force for Naga political solution.”
In his address to the Tatar Hoho Winter Session in the Council Headquarters (CHQ) Hebron, Tuccu stated that a “united front can deter any divisive aggression against the Naga nation and enable a more effective and collective response to any challenges.”
He emphasised that “unity of approach means sharing common values and working towards a collective destiny. It also means to reinforce a strong national identity,” and added that “this shared purpose builds trust and resilience” to overcome adversity.”
Tuccu issued a caution against internal discord, urging members to act with maturity. “Let us therefore, be more matured lest we show the way for India to exploit the politics of endless bickering and schism within the organization. This will only stall progress and indulge on political maneuver rather than solving our political issues.”
Tuccu asserted that at any cost, the organisation must not allow anything to erode public trust in its existence as the “torchbearer of Naga freedom fighters.” He asserted, “We are the organization that has accepted the divine inspired slogan ‘Nagalim for Christ’ as our ‘battle cry’ towards the goals.”
In his address, the Chairman mentioned “the unfortunate turn of events about Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR)” and its impact on the Naga political movement.
Tuccu acknowledged that the NSCN (IM) had initially engaged with the FNR in a “courteous and professional” manner. He credited the forum for its efforts in reducing armed confrontations between rival factions. “No doubt they have put their efforts to contain armed confrontations among brothers,” the NSCN (IM) Chairman stated. However, he remarked that this was not the core mandate. The fundamental goal, he said, was to build a “unifying force for a Naga political solution” by fostering “trust and cooperation” among the different groups.
On this front, he said, “FNR has not been able to achieve the primary objective of bringing trust and cooperation among the different groups.” Tuccu said, “under the circumstances we have to agree to disagree with FNR and move forward as dictated by the demand of the situation.” Tuccu observed that the level of trust and understanding required for a healthy relationship has not been established and the current dynamic is still causing a great deal of distress. “We express regret to FNR for the failure to achieve a shared narrative.”
“On the contrary, it has increased polarization of Naga political movement with multiple factions showing up with doubtful credentials,” Tuccu added.
The NSCN (IM) leader also cautioned against the “dubious role of the pseudo-Naga intellectuals.” He stated, “these are the people with Machiavellian motive to steal the show on Naga political solution plotted by Indian agency.” He said that the role of these individuals reflects a “politics characterized by strong rhetoric” and a “helplessness to defend the bona fide freedom fighters… Their shallow polarized politics bereft of respect for national interest and identity cannot be accepted in any manner whatsoever.”
“These people were so desperate to score points off NSCN when they kept saying NSCN is demanding flag and constitution from India. What belongs to the Nagas are with us and where is the need to demand from India,” he said.
On the contrary, he stated that the Naga flag and constitution are non-negotiable. “We are simply asking for recognition of Naga flag and Constitution based on the sovereign right of the Naga nation,” Tuccu asserted.