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Naga Political Issue Stalls Peace in Nagaland

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. ga-political-issue-stalls-peace-in-nagaland.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, January 29th 2026 at 12:56 GMT by ThePrint
      Locales: Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, INDIA

Kohima, Nagaland - January 29th, 2026 - The Naga political issue, a decades-long struggle for self-determination, continues to cast a long shadow over the Northeast Indian state of Nagaland and remains, according to former Nagaland Governor S.C. Jamir, the single largest impediment to lasting peace in the region. In a recent interview, Jamir, a veteran observer of Naga politics, painted a stark picture of the challenges facing negotiators and the potential consequences of continued deadlock.

The roots of the conflict stretch back to the 1950s, ignited by a burgeoning Naga nationalist movement advocating for greater autonomy and, initially, complete independence from India. This desire for self-rule stemmed from a distinct cultural identity, historical grievances, and a perceived lack of representation within the Indian state. Over the years, various Naga groups emerged, each with its own vision for the future, but all united by a common thread of seeking recognition and a degree of self-governance.

The National Socialist Council of Nagaland - Isak-Muivah faction (NSCN-IM) has become the most visible, and frequently the most inflexible, player in the ongoing negotiations with the Indian government. The NSCN-IM, led by its octogenarian leader Isak Chisi Swu (now deceased, with leadership continuing through Muivah and others), initially centered its demands around complete sovereignty for the Naga people, a position fundamentally at odds with India's constitutional framework. While the group has signaled a willingness to discuss alternatives, certain core demands continue to stall progress.

In 2015, a significant step forward was taken with the signing of a Framework Agreement between the NSCN-IM and the Government of India. This agreement outlined broad principles for resolving the long-standing dispute, offering a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution. However, the devil, as always, resided in the details. Disagreements over the practical implementation of the framework, specifically concerning the symbolic yet crucial issues of a separate Naga flag and constitution, have effectively brought the negotiations to a standstill.

Jamir argues that the NSCN-IM's insistence on these demands is "unrealistic" and represents a "non-starter" in the context of India's national integrity. He highlights a growing disconnect between the hardline stance of the NSCN-IM leadership and the broader Naga population, who, he believes, are increasingly weary of the protracted conflict and eager for a pragmatic solution. This division within the Naga community is a critical factor complicating the search for a unified and lasting peace.

Interestingly, not all Naga groups share the uncompromising position of the NSCN-IM. Several other factions have entered into separate agreements with the government, demonstrating a willingness to engage in more flexible negotiations and prioritize development and integration within the Indian Union. This divergence in approach underscores the complexity of representing the diverse interests within the Naga community.

Beyond the internal dynamics of the Naga movement, external factors also play a role, according to Jamir. He suggests that a deeper understanding of the historical context, cultural sensitivities, and socio-economic realities of the region is crucial for all parties involved. Furthermore, he emphasizes the need for increased flexibility and a willingness to compromise from both the Indian government and the NSCN-IM.

Jamir warns that the continued delay in resolving the Naga political issue carries significant risks. He fears that prolonged uncertainty could lead to renewed instability, a resurgence of violence, and a further erosion of trust between the government and the Naga people. He passionately advocates for a renewed commitment to dialogue, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground that respects the unique Naga identity while simultaneously upholding India's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The path forward remains unclear, but one thing is certain: a lasting peace in Nagaland requires a solution that is inclusive, equitable, and addresses the legitimate aspirations of the Naga people. It demands a delicate balancing act between recognizing cultural distinctiveness and maintaining national unity, a challenge that has eluded successive governments for decades. The hope is that, through sustained dialogue and a genuine commitment to compromise, a brighter future can finally be forged for Nagaland and the wider Northeast region.