14th Unification Day speech of Gen (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak, President and Chairman, GPRN/NSCN on November 22
Dear beloved Naga brothers and sisters,
In the month of November 2007, the quest for Naga reconciliation and unity became a reality under the aegis of Nagaland GBs and DBs Union, tribal Hohos and other apex civil societies. Unification was neither a sudden event nor a backdoor effort as some labelled it. The process had due approval of the top leadership of both NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) in 2007, preceded by intense prayer fasting programmes by different churches, prayer warriors and the national workers. History bears witness to the effort of all peace loving Nagas in the historic endeavour.
We salute and convey our deepest homage to the brave martyrs who have propagated and battled for peace and unity in the course of striving for preservation of our history and identity which has been the foundation and a fundamental principle for the salvation of Naga people’s aspiration.
Most unfortunately, the idea of genuine reconciliation and unity was a mere lip service to many leaders. The eloquence on repentance and forgiveness did not originate from the heart. Thus, friction started resulting in hundreds of Naga patriots perishing since. The scars remains but the truth speaks to us profoundly each year as we remember the historic event. God in Heaven and the many God fearing civil society leaders are alive to testify and witness as to what transpired and who failed the Naga people at a crucial hour on the issue of unity and reconciliation.
Today, by the grace of the Almighty God, Naga tribes, civil societies and peace loving Nagas have come to understand the reality of our situation. The Naga people heard about 3rd August 2015 Framework Agreement (FA) on TV and later a single page about the successful conclusion of the talks. On the other hand, the 17th November 2017 Agreed Position (AP) set the parameters of the Indo-Naga talks and the future political and administrative structure is made known to the people. WC, NNPGs Agreed Position has entrenched and reaffirmed the essence and spirit of 1951 Plebiscite of the Nagas.
GPRN/NSCN believes the GOI should not insult the Naga people by recognising self-serving men outside the boundary of WC and GOI’s Agreed Position. Indian government and agencies will be held solely responsible for patronising unmandated, irresponsible armed element in Nagaland.
Honourable Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi has time and again assured the Naga people of honourable and acceptable solution to the Naga political problem. GOI must understand that at this point of time, there is no logic, merit or substance in granting ceasefire or designated camps to dubious entities for which GOI would be held accountable if hard earned peace goes out of hand.
GPRN/NSCN is an unwavering partner of the WC, NNPGs, and as such, the clarity of purpose and goal of “Agreed Position” signed on 17th November 2017, shall be taken to logical conclusion in the interest of both the Nagas and the GOI. WC, NNPGs has reached out to all stakeholders among Nagas and in the neighbourhood. To deprive and prolong Naga question, after concluding talks officially, would hurt the Naga sentiment bitterly.
History speaks to us that on 30th March 1953 at Kohima Local ground, Late Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Late Burmese Prime Minister U Nu experienced what it is like to hurt the Naga sentiment. I appeal for commitment and decisiveness from Indian government. May good sense prevail in our time.
GOD BLESS NAGALAND!
The Morung Express “Public Space” is to provide space for diverse opinions to be expressed and heard. The opinions in the “Public Space” do not reflect the views and position of the newspaper nor the editor.
