Dec 16, 2004

Nagalim: NSCN-IM calls on Nagas to be "more realistic"


''We are prepared to listen to you. We will advocate your opinions and views during negotiations with the Government of India'', Thuingaleng Muivah said amidst applause from hundreds of Nagas who had gathered outside the airport since morning to welc
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The NSCN-IM collective leadership today asked the Nagas to be "more realistic" to find a settlement to the protracted Naga political problem and said the Centre as also the entire political class has assured the outfit of an honourable solution.
''But the solution must be found by appreciating and recognising the historical rights of Nagas,'' NSCN (I-M) General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah said amidst applause from hundreds of Nagas who had gathered outside the airport since morning to welcome their leaders. Muivah said consultations with the Naga public would be the 'most crucial phase' of their current visit to India to hammer out a solution to the issue and asked the Nagas to freely express their views on the issue.

''We are prepared to listen to you. We will advocate your opinions and views during negotiations with the Government of India,'' he said, urging Nagas to be 'more realistic' in coming together to find a settlement. Praising central and political party leaders for the warm hospitality extended to them during their week-long stay in New Delhi, Muivah said ''they all have assured us of a honorable settlement through peaceful means.'' NSCN(I-M) Chairman Issac Chishi Swu said the two of them would try to explain to Nagas how the outfit was strengthing its struggle from abroad and the process of the current peace talks with the Centre. Swu gave an open invitation to all who wished to visit Hebron, the NSCN(I-M) headquarters, to discuss and work together for a final solution to the vexed Naga issue.