Dimapur, September 4 (MExN): The Forum for Naga Reconciliation has strongly reminded of the truth that reconciliation is necessary to heal and restore the dignity of the Naga people, and has urged all sections of the people to join in the endeavor. The FNR working for reconciliation of the Naga “political” groups issued a statement reminiscing of the journey that started in 2008 and the progress so far, as well as the challenges ahead. Presently there is no other option but for Nagas to reconcile with each other, the forum reminded.
“FNR recognizes the reconciliation process as necessary to assist in healing and restoring people’s dignity. It is by taking this journey that Nagas can find healing and the courage to face the shadows that have stalked our people for a long time,” the amalgam of Naga leaders aid. The FNR reiterates its position that the reconciliation process will come full circle only when all the Nagas have found forgiveness and reconciliation with each other.
In the recent high-level meeting during August 20-26, 2011, six Naga leaders and their respective groups have “apologized and forgiven each other.” These bold and visionary steps are most appreciated, the forum said. However, the forum said it recognizes that not all the signatories of the Covenant of Reconciliation could attend this high-level meeting, and there are other Naga groups as well. “Therefore we affirm our commitment that we will continue to work towards the wholeness of all Nagas, so that no one is excluded,” the forum assured. Another issue that the forum broached was that differences in opinion should never be the pretext for not working for reconciliation.
The statement explained – “The FNR takes upon itself to be corrected where we have erred, to develop where we have limitations, and above all to remain steadfast to its commitment for reconciliation amongst all Nagas based on the historical and political rights. FNR makes no qualms to say that we are human and as part of the fallen creatures is liable to make mistakes. Hence, FNR sincerely appeals to the Nagas to advice, correct and encourage us. Our effort is a common effort. Differences of opinion should not be an argument for not working for reconciliation.”
It is important that the people should understand the unique challenges that the Nagas find their selves in, the forum said. “But to remain silent under such circumstances would only mean further destruction. Presently, there is no other option but for Nagas to reconcile with each other. However, realistic time ought to be given and it requires commitment and willingness to change for a better future,” the statement reminded.
Therefore, in the Naga context, the FNR said the journey towards reconciliation is a process comprising of many small steps. “Sometimes, when these steps are seen in isolation and on their own account, they may not make sense and may even seem contrary.
However, when all these small steps are seen together in its totality, it is clearly evident that the objective of FNR is for the reconciliation and healing of all Nagas,” the forum said.
The forum has also acknowledged that there have been several “well-intended initiatives” for reconciliation and unity, prior to the formation of the FNR and their efforts and contribution are lauded. “Even today, FNR is aware that it does not have and will not claim monopoly over reconciliation. The work of reconciliation is the duty of all and it is a collective effort for the common good,” the statement said.
The forum for Naga reconciliation urges all Nagas to promptly participate and support in the common cause for a shared Naga future. “We realize that all Nagas, no matter what tribe, creed or gender, have an investment in the future of the Naga nation. Each is entitled to earn and cherish his or her part of the Naga heritage. Because of this the Naga nation was founded. Because of this dream and vision the Naga nation has to prosper,” the statement.
“FNR recognizes the reconciliation process as necessary to assist in healing and restoring people’s dignity. It is by taking this journey that Nagas can find healing and the courage to face the shadows that have stalked our people for a long time,” the amalgam of Naga leaders aid. The FNR reiterates its position that the reconciliation process will come full circle only when all the Nagas have found forgiveness and reconciliation with each other.
In the recent high-level meeting during August 20-26, 2011, six Naga leaders and their respective groups have “apologized and forgiven each other.” These bold and visionary steps are most appreciated, the forum said. However, the forum said it recognizes that not all the signatories of the Covenant of Reconciliation could attend this high-level meeting, and there are other Naga groups as well. “Therefore we affirm our commitment that we will continue to work towards the wholeness of all Nagas, so that no one is excluded,” the forum assured. Another issue that the forum broached was that differences in opinion should never be the pretext for not working for reconciliation.
The statement explained – “The FNR takes upon itself to be corrected where we have erred, to develop where we have limitations, and above all to remain steadfast to its commitment for reconciliation amongst all Nagas based on the historical and political rights. FNR makes no qualms to say that we are human and as part of the fallen creatures is liable to make mistakes. Hence, FNR sincerely appeals to the Nagas to advice, correct and encourage us. Our effort is a common effort. Differences of opinion should not be an argument for not working for reconciliation.”
It is important that the people should understand the unique challenges that the Nagas find their selves in, the forum said. “But to remain silent under such circumstances would only mean further destruction. Presently, there is no other option but for Nagas to reconcile with each other. However, realistic time ought to be given and it requires commitment and willingness to change for a better future,” the statement reminded.
Therefore, in the Naga context, the FNR said the journey towards reconciliation is a process comprising of many small steps. “Sometimes, when these steps are seen in isolation and on their own account, they may not make sense and may even seem contrary.
However, when all these small steps are seen together in its totality, it is clearly evident that the objective of FNR is for the reconciliation and healing of all Nagas,” the forum said.
The forum has also acknowledged that there have been several “well-intended initiatives” for reconciliation and unity, prior to the formation of the FNR and their efforts and contribution are lauded. “Even today, FNR is aware that it does not have and will not claim monopoly over reconciliation. The work of reconciliation is the duty of all and it is a collective effort for the common good,” the statement said.
The forum for Naga reconciliation urges all Nagas to promptly participate and support in the common cause for a shared Naga future. “We realize that all Nagas, no matter what tribe, creed or gender, have an investment in the future of the Naga nation. Each is entitled to earn and cherish his or her part of the Naga heritage. Because of this the Naga nation was founded. Because of this dream and vision the Naga nation has to prosper,” the statement.
FNR activities in the last 42 months
i. 11 official Reconciliation meetings with the Naga political groups in a neutral venue at Chiang Mai, Thailand. At various points, the meetings were attended by representatives of Naga Hoho, NSF, NBCC, Nagaland Christian Forum, the Catholic Church, ENPO, various tribe hohos, and the different Naga political groups, along with members of FNR.
ii. 4 public consultations with Naga Hoho, tribe hohos, churches, civil society organizations and 1 consultation with the Naga intelligentsia.
iii. 72 official meetings with the Naga political groups jointly and separately in Naga-Land.
iv. FNR member(s) personally met SS Khaplang, Chairman NSCN on 5 occasions at his headquarters in Eastern Naga-Land (Burma). The visits to SS Khaplang took place: March 29-April3 2009, November 1st week 2009, May last week 2010, February 1st week 2011 and June 1st week, 2011. The FNR has spoken directly with SS Khaplang 26 times over the telephone and furthermore has sent letters and messages through different individuals on 21 instances on matters related to the Reconciliation process.
v. FNR members met Adino Phizo, President NNC in the first week of June 2008 at London; and the Transit Peace Camp at Kohima in 2008 and 2009 to share on the Naga Reconciliation and to become a part of the Process.
vi. 12 special programs which include soccer matches, special church services, joint social work, joint food and relief distribution, etc.
vii. FNR went on a tour along with Joint Working Group members and held 19 public meetings in various Naga towns and villages.
ii. 4 public consultations with Naga Hoho, tribe hohos, churches, civil society organizations and 1 consultation with the Naga intelligentsia.
iii. 72 official meetings with the Naga political groups jointly and separately in Naga-Land.
iv. FNR member(s) personally met SS Khaplang, Chairman NSCN on 5 occasions at his headquarters in Eastern Naga-Land (Burma). The visits to SS Khaplang took place: March 29-April3 2009, November 1st week 2009, May last week 2010, February 1st week 2011 and June 1st week, 2011. The FNR has spoken directly with SS Khaplang 26 times over the telephone and furthermore has sent letters and messages through different individuals on 21 instances on matters related to the Reconciliation process.
v. FNR members met Adino Phizo, President NNC in the first week of June 2008 at London; and the Transit Peace Camp at Kohima in 2008 and 2009 to share on the Naga Reconciliation and to become a part of the Process.
vi. 12 special programs which include soccer matches, special church services, joint social work, joint food and relief distribution, etc.
vii. FNR went on a tour along with Joint Working Group members and held 19 public meetings in various Naga towns and villages.
