In a significant development, the Global Naga Forum extended a heartfelt welcome to Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. The occasion marked an important opportunity for the Naga community to express their concerns and aspirations, encapsulated in a memorandum submitted to Shri Rahul Gandhi on January 15, 2024.
Memorandum Submitted to Shri Rahul Gandhi, MP (Lok Sabha) – Indo-Naga Political Situation
Date: January 15, 2024 Location: Kohima
Hon’ble Sir,
We, the Global Naga Forum, extend our warm wishes for your health and success during your Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. It is an honor to welcome you to our homeland and engage in this crucial dialogue. We appreciate the goodwill you hold among the Naga people, and we believe in your commitment to a secular, democratic India.
We write to draw your attention to the historical ties between postcolonial India and the fate of the Naga people. The 1953 imposition of an imaginary boundary without our consent led to an artificial separation across international borders. Since then, Indo-Naga relations have faced challenges, including military invasion, armed resistance, ceasefires, and peace missions.
Recent events, such as the tragic Oting and Mon incidents in December 2021, highlight the continued need for addressing human rights abuses against Nagas. Moreover, the potential retraction of the Free Movement Regime agreement with Myanmar is alarming, as it would hinder cultural ties and violate international law.
In this crucial time, we appeal for your leadership and assistance in resolving the Indo-Naga political problem. Specifically, we request:
a) Support for the resumption and completion of peace negotiations, including the repeal of AFSPA.
b) Opposition to the suspension of the Free Movement Regime agreement with Myanmar and any border fencing.
We believe that your Nyay Yatra for justice provides an opportune moment for reconciliation and peacemaking based on mutual respect and redressing historical wrongs. We stand in solidarity with your vision of India as a secular, democratic republic that upholds the rule of law and human rights for all.
Wishing you continued success in your Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.
KUKNALIM!
Yours Sincerely,
(CHUBA OZUKUM)
Convenor
(PROF ROSEMARY DZUVICHU)
Co-Convenor
