DIMAPUR, Dec 15 ? NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chishi Swu while appreciating the Government of India for its efforts to find a solution to the vexed Indo-Naga political problem said that ?we are here? to talk to the people and explain to them the process of ongoing negotiations with the Centre.
Thuingaleng Muivah, general secretary of the organisation said consultations with the Naga public would be the ?most crucial phase? of their current visit to hammer out a solution to the problem and asked the Nagas to freely express their views on the issue.
Thousands of Nagas from all the Naga-inhabited areas in traditional costumes accorded them an rousing welcome at Dimapur Airport where a colourful reception was hosted by the apex tribal council, Naga Hoho, and Dimapur-based Naga Council and some Naga NGOs and churches. Both the leaders of NSCN-IM arrived at Dimapur Airport at 12.35 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the peace process with cross section of the people.
Addressing the gathering at the reception function at the airport, NSCN-IM leader said: ?It is now time for the Nagas to consolidate for a solution. We should now work together forgetting the past mistakes for a solution.?
Muivah assured that they were here to seek the views and suggestions of Nagas which will be the base for the NSCN-IM for its future course of action for finding a solution to the protracted Naga issue. Nagas would not be ignored while taking a decision for a solution, he promised. ?We can tell you that we will not let you down,? he said reiterating that Nagas want to live in freedom.
Appreciating the achievements made by Nagas so far, Muivah said that ?we are proud of what you have done?. While maintaining that it was time to shun violence, he said: ?Solution cannot come through blood.?