We want an honourable solution: Muivah

We want an honourable solution: Muivah
By: M K Tayal June 26, 2005 Midday website

The Nagaland government is seeking greater autonomy from the Indian government. Fighting security forces since Nagaland became a part of the union, the insurgents are finally willing to sit across the table and discuss issues, with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN -IM) spearheading the struggle.

NSCN-IM seeks a separate Nagaland, but still wants to be part of the union. National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN -IM) leader Thuingaleng Muivah told Sunday Mid Day that he is waiting to reach an amicable solution with the Indian government. Here are excerpts from an interview with Muivah as he awaits a call from the PMO in a heavily guarded bungalow in central Delhi.

How are the talks with the Government of India progressing?
We have been talking with the Government of India for a long time. Our positions are now clear. Although there isn’t any confusion, there are issues.

What are the difficulties?
They (Indian government) have the difficulties. Thankfully they are more serious now. You have been in the capital in talks with the K Padmanabhaiah.

How long are you ready to wait?
It is difficult to say. The BJP-led government understood the uniqueness of the Naga history and the situation.
What do you think is unique about Nagaland?
Naga people have never been a part of India. During Independence, Mahatama Gandhi said that the Naga people have a right to be independent. He knew the history. We declared our independence a day before India did. But Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru did not understand the issue. He said he would position one soldier with each tree in Nagaland.

Who is to blame?
The British had a policy of divide and rule. But when Naga leaders met Nehru he lashed out at them. He had no patience. He aggressively said that even if the heavens were to fall, he would not allow Nagas to be independent. The delegation was taken aback. Nehru was arrogant. The attitude was an insult to the Naga people.

Is the Manmohan Singh government more understanding of the situation?
Although Manmohan Singh seems to have a better understanding, we can’t say anything right now.

What are your demands?
No demands from India! The Indian army has killed thousands of Naga people.

Do you want Independence?
We want an honourable solution. Will India do that? What are the realities? We don’t want to surrender our right, but at the same time we are looking for an honorable solution for both sides. We don’t want India and Nagaland to become hostile to each other. In 1994 the generals had declared that a military solution was not possible in the area. Is greater autonomy, so to speak, a demand? The most difficult issue for India is security. We are willing to build a joint defence with India. The people of Nagaland fight the best. India can have responsibility when it comes to external affairs, but when the rights of the Nagas are involved we should be allowed to have representation. Even the currency can continue to be Indian. Basically, the terms of agreements should be binding on both sides.

What about other issues?
The Naga people can also have Indian citizenship. But the government of Nagaland should handle taxation and other such issues. So can we call it a demand for a Greater Nagaland? Nagaland was not what it is at present. It has been divided and currently parts of it are in Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh. Does the UPA government have the political will to accede to these demands? I am apprehensive, but I know progress can be made. We do have a chance.