The implementation of CFGR to our understanding is a joint-responsibility of both the GOI and NSCN. The Cease-Fire Agreement has been arrived at bilaterally and likewise periodical reviews have been taking place jointly. However the present trend clearly indicates that CFGR has become more or less an arbitrary imposition on People’s Army of Nagaland, NSCN by GOI and her agencies. The incessant pressures, harassments, arrests, detainments and unnecessary inconveniences being caused to our cadres is becoming a daily routine. The level of respect between the Naga Army and Indian forces at the present juncture has gone down far below the pre-cease fire times. It is not only the People’s Army cadres but the Indian soldiers as well that are being put to maximum tensions and exertions both physically and psychologically. The existing cease fire thus becomes a mockery, when instead of translating the opportunity into decisive understanding and solution oriented bonding, the two forces are being forced to engage in “Cat and Mouse” game.
While the CF supervisory members from both the entity, i,e NSCN and GOI are engaged in white collared discussions across the table, the two armed forces are being used like a pawn in complete disregard of the civility and humanitarian aspects that each soldiers ought to avail. For instances, the Indian soldiers in hundreds are made to endure harsh winter days and nights in the jungle make shift camps without leave or rest as ascertained from the sepoys themselves. On the other hand our cadres are not being allowed to enter or exit camps even without arms, visit families, attend funerals, social occasions, confiscation of weapons belonging to card holder etc. citing the direction of the CFSB. In view of all these developments which are completely contrary to agreed CFGR, the Military authority would like to seek clarifications from the CFSB including both the NSCN and GOI representatives. 1. Is it a necessity, that, to start a political dialogue, the two armed forces have to be put at loggerheads or is it a preparation for armed conflict again? 2. Reviews, modification etc of CFGR is the prerogative of GOI alone or to be done jointly and consultatively? 3. CFGR is meant to be observed specifically by the People’s Army, NSCN alone or in partnership with the GOI where her forces also has bindings?. The issue is political and therefore trying to militarise the conflict even before formal political dialogue ensues may become counter-productive and unfruitful. The Military wing having crucial stake in the issue resolution if ignored and suppressed beyond acceptable decency, discipline and military ethics would have no option but to go military, internationally and befittingly aggressive.
Enough of humiliation has so far been endured for the sake of political option, however if situations aggravates in the name of cease fire and CFGR, the CFSB should hold moral responsibility.
Lt. Gen. Niki Sumi
Military Supervisor,
Nagaland People’s
Army of Nagaland
NSCN/GPRN
