Recently, the Governor of Nagaland R.N. Ravi penned a letter to the state’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. The letter underscored the constant challenge to the legitimacy of the constitutionally established State government by armed gangs that question the nation’s sovereignty and integrity. Mr. Ravi, known for his grasp of the affairs of the northeast, was appointed as the Centre’s interlocutor for the Naga peace process in August 2014.
Non-State Actors and Tax Implications
The letter drew attention to the issue of ‘taxes’ levied by these armed gangs or parallel governments. It also highlighted the increased costs of development and infrastructure projects due to the system of parting with a portion of the project cost to these armed gangs. These extremist groups have continued to collect ‘taxes’ or ‘donations’ in their areas of operation since the ceasefire agreement with the NSCN (IM) in mid-1997.
Reactions from Various Parties
Reacting to the letter, the Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs), composed of seven extremist groups, denied engaging in extortion. Contrarily, NSCN (IM) claimed to levy ‘genuine taxes’, which have sustained the Naga political movement thus far. The Chief Minister contested the Governor’s reference to Article 371A (1)(b) of the Constitution and argued that referring to these organisations as ‘armed gangs’ might hamper efforts towards achieving lasting peace sought by both Central and state governments.
Understanding Article 371A
In the case of Nagaland, certain Acts of Parliament, including those related to religious or social practices of the Nagas, Naga customary law and procedure, administration of civil and criminal justice, and ownership and transfer of land and resources, would not apply unless approved by the State Legislative Assembly. Article 371A (1)(b) assigns special responsibility on Nagaland’s Governor for law and order in the state until internal disturbances caused by the hostile Nagas continue.
Chronological Overview
The roots of NSCN (IM) date back to 1917 during World War I times, involving the conscription of around 2,000 Nagas by the British for salvage work and road-building in France. The returning Nagas formed the Naga Club in 1918, arousing a sense of Naga nationalism. The club evolved into the Naga National Council (NNC), campaigning for the sovereignty and secession of the Naga Hills from India.
Despite intermittent armed movement, hopes of peace were raised with the signing of the Shillong Agreement with a moderate faction of the NNC in 1975. However, dissenters formed the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) in 1980. In 1997, NSCN (IM) signed a ceasefire agreement after receiving a proposal for peace talks from New Delhi.
Demand for Greater Nagalim
The NSCN (IM), largely composed of Manipur’s Tankhuls, has held over 100 rounds of peace talks with the Centre within and outside India. One of its significant demands is the formation of a unified Naga homeland, named ‘Greater Nagalim’, merging the Naga-populated areas of Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal with Nagaland. However, other northeastern states oppose this idea.
Way Forward
To achieve a lasting solution, the diverse cultural, historical, and territorial aspects of the Nagas must be considered. Any implemented arrangement should aim at social and political harmony, economic prosperity, and protection of life and property for all tribes and citizens.
Last Modified: February 8, 2024