NEW DELHI, Jan 23 ? The Delhi round of talks between the Union Government and the NSCN(I-M) leadership did not end on a sweet note for either sides, with an adamant Naga leadership sticking on with their demand for unification of all Naga inhabited areas and refusing to lay down arms. The hiccups, notwithstanding, both sides agreed to continue with the negotiations and a joint statement expressed satisfaction with the progress of the talks. The Naga leadership, meanwhile, are leaving for Amsterdam early next morning with mixed reactions, after concluding their over 10 days of stay.
The third day of talks witnessed fast paced developments as the Government of India and the NSCN(I-M) wrestled with the content of the joint statements. The Naga leadership was apparently insisting on a clarification from the Government side to the Manipur Chief Minister?s claim about Prime Minister?s assurance leading to a stalemate that lasted for the better part of yesterday and today. A Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) called on Mizoram Chief Minister, Zoramthanga to defuse the crisis. The Chief Minister who stayed on to meet the Prime Minister joined the talks late in the morning managed to persuade the NSCN(I-M) to continue with the peace process and sign a joint statement. The rest of the day saw the two sides drafting the joint statement.
The NSCN(I-M) leaders apparently called for assurance from the top forcing the Union Government to organise an impromptu meeting with the National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister, Brajesh Mishra in the afternoon, after which they appeared before the waiting media to explain their position. The chief interlocutor, K Padmanabhaiah along with Intelligence Bureau chief, KP Singh and the chairman and general secretary of the NSCN(I-M), Isak Chisi Swu and Th Muivah went to meet Sri Mishra. But the joint statement is likely to stir a hornet?s nest in Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in that the Government has clarified that there has been no change in its stand on the scope of negotiations. ?The NSCN raised the issues relating to the distinct identify of the Nagas and their stand on the unification of Naga areas. In this regard the Government of India representative clarified that there has been no change in its stand on the scope of negotiations,? the statement said.
?A wide range of substantive issues put up by the NSCN in their proposal were discussed, the joint statement said, adding that there was agreement to continue the formal talks until a lasting settlement is reached.? Both sides reaffirmed the need for a peaceful, violence-free environment,? it further said.
However, what Muivah said later to the press would not exactly be music to Government?s ears, as Muivah ruled out the possibility of his cadres surrendering their weapons. He also ruled out acceptance of autonomy under an enlarged Article 371 (A). As for the progress of the peace process, Muivah said that it was going on well so far. As for Manipur Chief Minister?s statement, Swu said that the Government has clarified and it is mentioned in the joint statement. When asked about the thrust of the discussions, Muivah said the destiny of the Nagas must be left to the Nagas. But he dodged a question when asked whether they have given up on the demand for sovereignty, saying that process of discussion was on.
Earlier, Swu said that talks have gone well and it is successful. The chief interlocutor added that the two sides have covered substantial ground on substantial issues. The impromptu press briefing today was marked by chaos as pressmen jostled with security personnel, even as the two sides tried to present a brave face despite the reported differences. According to sources, three days of discussions were overshadowed by the Manipur Chief Minister?s statement. The NSCN(I-M) leaders are expected to be back in India after a month for next round of discussions. Significantly, both Muivah and Swu yesterday got visas from Netherland embassy. The duo and their colleagues are travelling on Indian passports. The NSCN leaders in the evening hosted a reception for Naga civil groups.