Reconciliation only way for Nagas: Swu

DIMAPUR, Aug 23 – NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chishi Swu, while reiterating that the NSCN has never closed the door for reconciliation, said it is committed to Naga reconciliation at the highest level based on historical and political rights of the Nagas.

“When I gave my signature in the Covenant of Reconciliation as the Yaruiwo of the Republic of Nagalim, my heart was filled with great pride and hope,” he said in his 64th ‘Naga Independence Day’ message which was read out by Gen (retd) VS Atem, convenor, Steering Committee, NSCN, at Camp Hebron recently.

While expressing gratitude to the Forum for Naga Reconciliation for its efforts for Naga reconciliation, Swu said it is quite natural that in order to sabotage the reconciliation and unity among the Nagas, evil elements would be actively working against the reconciliation process.

“As for the NSCN, it will not shirk from the national responsibility entrusted to it even by condemning such people, whoever he or she may be. Because we know for sure, he or she who cannot stand up for the cause of freedom in life or in death is not worthy of freedom,” he added.

Stating that political negotiation with the Government of India has been continuing for more than 13 years now, Swu thanked the Naga people for the patience and valuable inputs.

“We can only find a political settlement with India on the basis of the recognition of the unique history of the Nagas by the Government of India on July 11, 2001 in Amsterdam ,” he stated.

Asserting that any Indo-Naga political solution will be on the basis of the uniqueness of the Naga history, the NSCN-IM chairman cautioned the Naga people against the propaganda and disinformation by certain vested interests that would disturb the ongoing political talks with the Government of India.

Swu also asserted the Naga people will continue to uphold proclamation of the then NNC President AZ Phizo of the Independence of Nagalim, unifying all Naga areas including free Nagalim, endorsing copies to the United Nations and India on August 14, 1947.