Dipak Kurmi
The Central Government’s decision to invite leaders of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) [NSCN(IM)] for the resumption of peace talks in early October marks a positive development in the long-standing Naga peace process. This step comes after a consultative meeting convened by the Nagaland Government, following pressure from tribal Hohos, civil society, and mass organizations for an early conclusion to the prolonged political dialogues. However, the path to a final peace accord remains fraught with challenges, particularly the unification of various Naga rebel factions and the resolution of contentious issues like the demand for a separate flag and constitution for the Naga people.
The Ongoing Dialogue and Its Hurdles
The last round of talks between the Central Government and NSCN(IM) took place in November 2022 but failed to reach a conclusion, primarily due to NSCN(IM)’s insistence on a separate flag and constitution for the Naga people. These demands remain a sticking point, complicating the prospects for a final peace agreement. Despite this, the government’s pragmatic decision to keep the dialogue alive reflects an understanding of the influence and strength of NSCN(IM), which remains a significant stakeholder in the Naga peace process.
The challenge, however, is broader than the flag and constitution issue. The real difficulty lies in bringing all Naga rebel groups, including breakaway factions, under a single platform to agree on a unified peace accord. The Naga National Political Group (NNPG), an umbrella organization representing seven Naga rebel factions, has expressed frustration with delays in reaching a political solution. The NNPG argues that the political dialogue was officially concluded on October 31, 2019, and has urged the Central Government to expedite the process based on the agreements already reached.
A Call for Unity and a Single Peace Accord
The consultative meeting organized by the Nagaland Government emphasized the importance of uniting NSCN(IM) and NNPG in preparing a single document that would form the basis of the final accord with the Central Government. Both groups had previously taken a step toward unity by establishing a ‘Council of Naga Relationship and Cooperation’ in January 2023, pledging to collaborate on resolving the Naga issue. Despite this, divisions remain, and the task of uniting all factions under one peace accord is critical to ensuring a lasting solution.
The Central Government’s stance that only a single peace accord will be signed with all Naga groups is a pragmatic approach. Separate accords with different factions would likely exacerbate divisions rather than foster lasting peace. The success of the peace process hinges on the ability of all stakeholders to come together and agree on a unified solution.
Changing Geopolitical Realities
The changing geopolitical landscape in the region adds another layer of complexity to the peace process. Political turmoil and regime changes in Myanmar and Bangladesh, where some Naga factions have traditionally operated, have created new challenges for both the rebel groups and the Central Government. These shifting realities are likely to influence the next round of negotiations, as both sides reassess their positions in light of these developments.
Additionally, the ongoing ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups in neighboring Manipur have further complicated the situation. The Central Government will need to carefully navigate these regional dynamics while addressing the demands of the Naga groups. The peace process cannot be viewed in isolation, and any solution must take into account the broader regional and geopolitical context.
The Importance of Elevating the Talks
One of the key recommendations from the consultative meeting was to elevate the Naga peace talks to the political level by appointing a senior central minister as an interlocutor. Currently, retired Intelligence Bureau Special Director A.K. Mishra has been representing the Central Government in discussions with Naga rebel groups. While Mishra’s efforts have kept the dialogue alive, there is a growing consensus that involving a senior political leader could restore confidence among the Naga people and expedite decision-making on contentious issues.
Elevating the talks to the political level could also help address the concerns of ordinary Naga citizens, who have long been deprived of economic opportunities due to the prolonged conflict. Extortion by underground groups has further exacerbated the situation, affecting businesses and ordinary citizens alike. A swift and conclusive peace agreement would go a long way in bringing economic stability to the region.
Informing the Naga People and Maintaining Momentum
A critical aspect of moving the peace process forward is keeping the Naga people informed about the progress made so far. Transparency about the issues that have already been settled could create a positive outlook and prevent contentious issues from overshadowing the nearly three-decade-long peace process. The Central Government must strike a balance between addressing the demands of NSCN(IM) and ensuring that the negotiations do not break down over a few unresolved issues.
For the NSCN(IM), adopting a pragmatic approach on the demands for a separate flag and constitution could be the key to expediting the talks. While these issues are important, focusing on the broader goal of achieving peace and stability in the region may ultimately serve the interests of the Naga people more effectively.
The resumption of peace talks between the Central Government and NSCN(IM) is a welcome step, but the road to a final peace accord is filled with challenges. The unification of Naga rebel factions under a single platform and the resolution of contentious issues are essential for reaching a lasting solution. Elevating the talks to the political level and maintaining transparency with the Naga people are crucial for restoring confidence and keeping the peace process on track.
As geopolitical realities in the region continue to shift, the Central Government and Naga rebel groups must remain committed to sustained dialogue and avoid letting the talks derail over one or two contentious issues. With the right approach, a final peace accord that brings lasting stability and prosperity to the Naga people may finally be within reach.
A columnist, writer, and policy analyst, Dipak Kurmi serves as the Sub-Editor for a prominent daily newspaper based in Assam. The writer can be reached at dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com
