The Hindu : Opinion / Editorials : Signals on the Naga front

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Monday, May 29, 2006

Opinion

Opinion - Editorials

Signals on the Naga front

Considering that no breakthrough was on the cards anyway, the May 19-20 round of talks in Amsterdam between the Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) has not been a total disappointment. Both sides have agreed to meet "frequently" to find an "honourable'' solution. Another round is expected soon, although no formal statement has been forthcoming. The future of the ceasefire that has been in place since August 1997 — the latest six-month extension is to expire on July 31 — is of immediate concern. With regard to the contentious issues, it is clear that the Government has major constraints when it comes to the demand for a unification of the "Naga-inhabited areas," which include parts of Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh. The other demands, including for symbols of sovereignty, are patently untenable. Even as signs of a desire for sustained peace are in sight on the ground, there is evidence of growing impatience among some sections. The Naga Hoho, the apex tribal council of the Nagas, in a memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, spoke of concern over "the delay[ing] tactics and non-committal diplomacy" of the Government and of "the imminent bloodshed and violence that will follow in Naga areas." At the end of the seemingly endless debate is the question: who will blink first?

It is important to keep talking, and the process going. What is needed is a step-by-step movement — it is unrealistic to expect a solution overnight. Oscar Fernandes, the Centre's point man for the talks, has spoken of a solution in terms of a "package" that would respond to the demands point by point. A periodic extension of the ceasefire without conclusive political action can hardly be seen as a positive trend, and may well buttress the impression of a strategy of buying time. To make any progress, both parties should show a greater flexibility and accommodation than they have displayed so far. Admittedly, there are still several options for both to look at seriously. Different models could be projected in a transparent manner for Naga civil society groups to consider. There is a case for seeking an interim solution pending a final settlement. Meanwhile, India should continue to take a firm stand against any third-party mediation. Also, the question whether a deal with the NSCN(I-M) alone will solve the problem once and for all, and how far the group represents Naga opinion in its totality, needs to be considered afresh. Groups such as the Naga Hoho should work to unify the Naga factions in order that they could talk peace with New Delhi on a common platform. Continued recriminatory killings among the rival underground factions are a matter of concern too. Only a set of bold and unorthodox steps can end insurgency in the Naga heartland. These should seek to give due recognition to the unique history and situation of the Naga people.

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