Apr 30, 2005

Nagalim: NSCN (IM) Expresses Unhappiness Over Slow Progress of Talks


Naga organisatoin NSCN (IM), which is engaged in peace talks with the centre over the Naga issue, today expressed unhappiness over the "slow" progress of the parleys
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Insurgent outfit NSCN (IM), which is engaged in peace talks with the centre over the Naga issue, today expressed unhappiness over the "slow" progress of the parleys even as its rival faction NSCN (Khaplang) said any agreement without involving it would not be acceptable to Nagas.

NSCN (Isaac-Muivah) spokesman V S Atem, when asked by a private news channel whether he felt that the centre was dragging its feet, said, "Yes. That is how seven years have been taken."

To a query whether the outfit was happy with the progress of talks, he said, "As I see it, it is slow. It should have been faster than this.”

Forty-one rounds of talks have been held so far between the top leadership of the Indian Government and NSCN (IM) since the talks process began in 1997.

NSCN (IM)'s insistence for a greater Nagalim state which would be outside the purview of the Indian Constitution and comprise Nagaland and parts of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh is believed to have caused a roadblock.

Asked whether there could be bloodshed if the talks failed, Atem said, "Yes of course. Nagas are not bloodthirsty, but if they are forced, they are imposed (then) naturally they will also fight back."

However, a representative of the NSCN (Khaplang) faction, who was not named, told the channel that any agreement between NSCN (IM) and the government would not be acceptable to Nagas unless it was involved.

"It is only going to be an NSCN (IM)-Government of India settlement, nothing else. It will not be acceptable to NSCN(K) or Nagas," he said.

Source: Zeenews