The Nagaland Government has recently made a plea to all Naga political and extremist factions, urging cooperation in establishing harmony, reconciliation and peace within the region. This appeal is a reflection of the ongoing peace process that has been delayed for over 23 years between the central government and two sets of Naga extremist groups.
About the Nagas
Nagas are an indigenous hill people who live in the remote, mountainous regions between the Indian state of Assam and Burma; they’re estimated to number around 2.5 million. The Nagas don’t belong to a singular tribe but are rather an ethnic community consisting of more than nineteen major tribes such as Aos, Angamis, Kabuis, Kukis, Lothas and more.
The Background of Naga Insurgency
In 1881, the Naga Hills became part of British India. It led to the formation of the Naga Club in 1918 to unify scattered Naga tribes, which triggered a sense of nationalism among them. Over the years, this club transformed into the Naga National Council (NNC) in 1946. Under Angami Zapu Phizo’s leadership, the NNC declared Nagaland an independent state on August 14, 1947.
Evolution of Naga Struggle
In 1975, some NNC and NFG (Naga Federal Government) factions agreed to disarm under the Shillong Accord. However, a group of about 140 members, including Thuingaleng Muivah, refused to accept the accord and formed the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) in 1980. The NSCN eventually split into NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) after violent clashes in 1988.
Demands of Naga Groups
The primary demand of Naga groups is Greater Nagalim, a sovereign statehood that involves redrawing boundaries to unite all Naga-inhabited areas under one administration. This includes parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Assam, and even Myanmar. They also call for a separate Naga constitution (Yezabo) and national flag.
Peace Initiatives: Past and Present
Over the years, multiple peace initiatives have been attempted. The Shillong Accord in 1975 witnessed the NNC leadership agreeing to disarm but being rejected by several leaders, leading to an NNC split. In 1997, a ceasefire agreement was made between the government and NSCN-IM. Later, a Framework Agreement in 2015 recognised the unique history, culture, position of Nagas along with their sentiments and aspirations.
Persistent Issues
Although these agreements paved the way for an inclusive peace process, it raised suspicions about the central government exploiting divisions among Nagas on tribal and geopolitical lines. Another significant issue is the existence of more than one organisation, each claiming to represent the Nagas.
A Way Forward
The Centre must negotiate comprehensively with all factions and groups of insurgents for lasting peace. Respecting their cultural, historical and territorial extent is crucial. One approach could involve maximum decentralisation of powers to tribal heads and minimum centralisation at the apex level. This could facilitate governance and aid in major development projects. Moreover, the Centre must remember that most armed insurgencies across the world end not in total victory or defeat, but in a compromise.