Appeals to PM for early solution; pitches for flag and constitution
Dimapur, October 30 (MExN): The Naga Rising (TNR) on Friday wrote to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking an early and honorable solution inclusive of the Naga flag and constitution, while calling for continuing the talks and the need for mutual respect.
“The Naga flag and Yezhabo (constitution) have been an integral part of the Naga national movement since its inception, irrespective of the numerous groups or factions that exist. As such, there is nothing to demand or bargain for when it comes to these national symbols as they are inherent and inalienable rights of the Naga people,” the group wrote.
It said that though divided, the Naga Political Groups (NPGs) continue to exist on the basis of the declaration of Naga Independence of August 14, 1947, and the Plebiscite of 1951.
Both the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015 with the NSCN (IM) and the Agreed Position of November 17, 2017 with the NNPGs have officially "recognized the Nagas as an ‘entity’ i.e. distinct and independent from the Government of India (GoI)," the TNR stated.
“For the GoI to now say that the flag and constitution cannot be officially recognized is disrespectful to the Nagas,” it said and urged not to undermine the ‘wide spectrum’ of political support to the Naga peace process through successive Indian PMs and the contribution of the Naga masses.
Pitching for the inclusion of flag and constitution in the final agreement, the TNR stated that if Nagas associate with India in some form of federal relationship as per the ‘agreed competencies’, a flag and constitution will represent the duality. Perhaps, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), with its ‘sentiment’ about flag, could better understand the Naga context, the TNR noted.
It appealed for the Naga negotiators and the GoI to “work out some formulations that would recognize the Naga flag” upon the PM’s counsel.
The TNR also reminded the PM of his speech at the signing of the Framework Agreement, where he reportedly spoke about the need to restore the Naga's “pride and prestige and self-respect” and appealed for translating the ‘well-meaning words into action’ by addressing their aspirations.
