The Naga Agreement 2015: A Comprehensive Overview
The Naga Accord or the Naga Peace Accord of 2015 is a historic agreement between the Indian government and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN). The agreement promises to bring an end to the decades-long insurgency and political turmoil in Nagaland and the North-eastern region of India.
The negotiations for the Naga Accord began in 1997, but it was signed only in 2015 after prolonged talks and deliberations. The agreement was signed by the then Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, and Thuingaleng Muivah, the general secretary of NSCN-IM.
The Naga Accord, also known as the Framework Agreement, is a comprehensive document that outlines the broad contours of an inclusive and sustainable solution to the Naga political issue. It recognizes the unique history, culture, and identity of the Naga people and their demand for greater autonomy and self-rule.
The key highlights of the Naga Accord are as follows:
1. Greater Autonomy for Nagaland: The agreement promises to grant greater autonomy to Nagaland and other Naga-inhabited regions in the North-eastern states of India. It will enable the Nagas to design and implement their development policies while also safeguarding their cultural identity and political rights.
2. Ceasefire and End of Insurgency: The Naga Accord provides for a permanent ceasefire between the Indian government and the NSCN. It also guarantees the withdrawal of Indian security forces from Naga-inhabited areas, paving the way for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
3. Integration of Naga-inhabited Areas: The agreement envisages the integration of Naga-inhabited areas spread across the North-eastern states of India. It further proposes the creation of a special administrative body, the Naga Territorial Council, to manage the affairs of the Nagas living in these areas.
4. Economic Development: The Naga Accord promises to stimulate economic development in Nagaland and other Naga-inhabited areas. It provides for the allocation of funds for infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, among other sectors, to spur economic growth.
The Naga Accord of 2015 is a historic milestone in India`s journey towards peace and reconciliation in the North-eastern region. However, the implementation of the agreement has been slow, and several key issues remain unresolved.
The Naga Accord has faced opposition from various quarters, including other Naga militant groups and the neighboring states of Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh. The fears of these states are primarily related to the territorial integrity and political autonomy of their regions.
Despite these challenges, the Naga Accord remains a significant step towards resolving the decades-long insurgency in Nagaland and the North-eastern region. It is essential for all stakeholders to work collaboratively to implement the agreement in a timely and effective manner, and address the concerns of all affected parties.
