DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 16 (MExN): The apex CSOs and the organising committee of the Naga Common Platform said the initiative does not conflict with the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and described recent misunderstandings as arising from “a misreading of on-the-ground realities.” In a statement issued on November 16, the organisers said they “appreciate the religious approach of the FNR to bring unity and reconciliation amongst the Naga Political Groups as a holistic mission and the much-needed effort at all times,” adding that they have “no ill intention to undermine or conflict with the FNR in any manner.”
According to the statement, perceptions that the Common Platform—initiated by the Naga Gaon Burah Federation (NGBF) and Apex Civil Bodies—undermines or runs parallel to the FNR stem from misinterpretation. “While we value the FNR’s healing mission for our lands, the proposed Common Platform genuinely reflects the situation and the circumstances faced by stakeholders due to prolonged negotiations and an indefinite peace process, which have imposed a heavy burden on the people,” it said. The organisers stated that the two approaches are complementary and aimed toward the same objective. They noted that “achieving absolute unity among groups with differing principles and ideologies is a highly complex mission that unfolds in God’s timing; nonetheless, the coming together of groups for the same goal is a practical and fruitful virtue.”
The Organising Committee said it wanted to make its position clear that it holds “neither prejudice against anyone nor any hidden agenda nor such intention to undermine nor challenge anyone authority.” It described the scheduled public gathering as “a mere act in open to fill up the overdue hiatus of silence on demand for political solution.”
The statement asserted that “the 2 negotiating groups had reached their conclusion for a final agreement, and the authority lies with the Government of India to deliver an inclusive and comprehensive solution based on the gentlemen's agreements.”
While acknowledging concerns raised by the NTHCC and its endorsement of what it called “the sacred mission of healing our society,” the Apex CSOs said they sense an urgent need for stakeholders to rise above divisions. They stated that the initiative is rooted in the people’s movement and that the proposed solution to the Naga Political Issue requires stakeholder endorsement “to prepare the landing ground so that peace remains wholesome.”
“We remain committed towards this clarion call of stakeholders’ participation beyond one-upmanship without reservation or inhibition, and appeal for the magnanimity of the tribe leaders to appreciate the urgency to break the quandary, we can do if God is for us,” the statement said. It added, “We have reached the stage ‘If not now, Then when’ and once again call on every stakeholder to come, participate and decide for ourselves what future we want for the Nagas.”
The statement was issued by the Organising Committee of the Naga Common Platform.
