Kohima, Dec 1 (ANI) – Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio spoke on Monday, echoing his pledge for a quick turnaround on the Naga political issue while underlining his government’s steadfast dedication to a respectful, inclusive resolution.
During Statehood Day events at the Nagaland Secretariat Plaza, Rio highlighted the efforts of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC). The PAC, which met on Sept 1, had given the Ungma statement of Aug 23, 2025, a unanimous endorsement.
The statement was issued after a meeting in Ungma village, where Naga political groups, tribal Hohos, and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) released a joint declaration. It underscored a pledge to Naga unity, healing, and a shared political path built on historic and legitimate claims.
Rio urged all Naga factions, with backing from the Tribal Hohos, to unite under a single platform and seek a common political direction. The PAC includes ministers, advisors, parliamentary representatives, and leaders from all parties.
He also recalled the broad consultative gathering on Sept 12, 2024, when stakeholders asked the Indian government to elevate the peace dialogue to the highest political level. The CM called again on Naga groups, the central government, and other stakeholders to recognize the urgency of concluding a final settlement.
The federal authority has been negotiating with the NSCN‑IM and other Naga parties since the 1997 ceasefire and signed a crucial Framework Agreement in 2015. Parallel talks began in 2017 with the Working Committee of Naga National Political Groups (NNPG), a mix of at least seven factions, leading to an Agreed Position that November. The NSCN‑IM continues to insist on a distinct flag and constitution for Nagas and wants integration of Naga settlements spread across Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and even Myanmar. Those demands have been repeatedly declined by the government.
Rio affirmed the government’s ongoing commitment to Eastern Nagaland, acknowledging its development gaps. He reiterated the intent to address the eastern population’s aspirations, particularly the push for a Frontier Nagaland Territory Area (FNTA) arrangement.
Following tripartite talks in Sept 2025 involving the central and state governments and the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), along with departmental consultations, the CM expressed hope for a swift, shared resolution. The ENPO, active since 2010, has campaigned for a separate Frontier Nagaland Territory or state comprising six eastern districts—Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, and Tuensang—home to seven marginalized tribes: Chang, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Phom, Tikhir, Sangtam, and Yimkhiung.
Rio announced that the 26th Hornbill Festival‑2025 will feature record international participation, welcoming six partner countries—Austria, Malta, Switzerland, Ireland, France, and the United Kingdom—alongside Arunachal Pradesh as the state partner. Each partner will host dedicated roundtable sessions to explore collaboration in investment, culture, arts, agriculture, sports, education, and the creative economy.
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