Naga leader declares flag and constitution non-negotiable
India betrayed accord recognizing Nagalim’s sovereignty: Muivah
Ukhrul: Naga leader and General Secretary of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), Thuingaleng Muivah, has reiterated that the Naga national flag, constitution, and territorial integrity are non-negotiable, accusing the Government of India of betraying the spirit of the 2015 Framework Agreement.
According to Kashmir Media Service, 91-year-old Muivah made the remarks during a rare public appearance in his hometown, Ukhrul, Manipur, where he returned after more than five decades. The veteran Naga leader was accorded a grand reception by thousands of supporters and NSCN (IM) cadres, with the town observing a near shutdown to mark his arrival.
Owing to ill health, Muivah’s 11-page speech was read by another senior NSCN (IM) member. In his address, Muivah said, “The only honourable and negotiated political agreement shall be in accordance with the letter and spirit of the Amsterdam Joint Communiqué of 2002 and the Framework Agreement of 2015, which officially recognise Nagalim’s unique history, sovereignty, territory, national flag and constitution.”
Reaffirming his stand, the NSCN (IM) chief said, “The Naga national flag and constitution are non-negotiable. The Government of India has betrayed the letter and spirit of the Framework Agreement by refusing to recognise Nagalim’s national identity.” He alleged that New Delhi was attempting to divide Naga people through parallel agreements with smaller factions to weaken the collective cause.
Muivah also urged the Indian leadership to “honour the commitments made by successive prime ministers, including PV Narasimha Rao, AB Vajpayee, Dr Manmohan Singh, and Narendra Modi,” who, he said, had all contributed to the Indo-Naga peace process.
The Naga leader thanked the Tangkhul community, human rights activists, civil society groups, students, and church organisations for their role in facilitating his long-awaited homecoming. Muivah is expected to stay in his native Somdal village for several days before leaving for Nagaland.
