Congrats 'Eastern Nagaland' -- bigger celebration vis-a-vis Naga Solution expected too

 Congrats 'Eastern Nagaland' -- bigger celebration vis-a-vis Naga Solution expected too

New Delhi/Kohima 

A new chapter has been written aboit Nagas. A Tripartite agreement (Memorandum of Agreement) was signed between the Government of India, Government of Nagaland and representatives of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) in New Delhi on Thursday, Feb 5,  paving the way for creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).

The agreement was signed in the presence of Union home minister Amit Shah and Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio. The FNTA will cover six eastern districts– Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator– and will have devolution of powers over 46 subjects. 

Addressing the gathering, Shah described the occasion as a significant step toward a “dispute-free Northeast".

Blogger with a Naga youngster at Kohima

This is a milestone with special significance. 

This breakthrough after years of talks, permutation and combinations -- that begun during UPA era in 2011-12 came at a time when the neighbouring state of Manipur is struggling hard to come out of turmoil of ethnic differences.

Hence, one quick refrain is Nagaland’s readily offering a lesson to Manipur. 

One keen northeast watcher says the FNTA deal is an example of good Governance.

The Modi Govt is able to recognise and execute the much needed political will the need for growth in development of the far flung areas. 

Another refrain is the periof from 2023 is a great loss for people in Manipur -- as the fallout of ethnic clashes still remain and Kukis are "unhappy" that their demand for a separate administrative has gone unheeded. But officials suggest - the New Delhi apparatus is still willing to hammer out a mutually accepted Solution for all communities in Manipur too.

A retired military officer says : "While elements in Manipur decided to glorify the trouble times features of 2023 as foundation of future roadmap -- they must realise this is only an invitation to chaos. The Govt of India will have to work harder in Manipur now".

On the other hand there is optimism in Nagaland.

"Nagas for the first time are celebrating a solution.   Eastern Naga people may be backward in development but they have shown their ability to think forward and take decision. This may be a catalyst for Naga political solution," goes another refrain only underlining the fact that there are saboteurs working full steam in Nagaland as well.

However; on matters related to Naga political issue and the negotiations that's hanging fire since 2015: we may apply the finer points of the saying -- "If you don't like your results; Change the Approach".

With regard a larger Naga Solution they will have to be more pragmatic.

The ENPO originally demanded a separate state ("Frontier Nagaland") in 2010 due to perceived neglect in development and infrastructure. While the 2026 agreement provides autonomy instead of full statehood, the ENPO has accepted it as a "temporary" narrowing of their stance to ensure immediate progress.

It is learnt that geology, mining and tourism subjects will be dealt jointly by FNTA and State Govt. 

Fund allocation will reportedly be made by Central Govt to State Govt under a separate FNTA head, with the same to be disbursed to FNTA within 07 days. The subject of finances will reportedly be dealt by Addl Chief Secy, to be nominated by Governor on consultation with the Chief and Dy Chief of FNTA. 

***  Govt of India a scores both a strategic and moral victory.

^^^** 

This is certainly a case of "division" coming to the fore. Has it defeated the hyped speech about Nagalim or greater Naga integration ?

The fact is -- in 1960s - Nagas of Tuensang area in erstwhile NEFA - todays Arunachal Pradesh - had come closer and joined other Nagas for statehood in 1963. Now, they say the State Govt apparatus has failed them.

Critics of Modi Govt are already at work and may soon .... interpretation and deliberate misinterpretation may be thrown out.

Nevertheless, its a strategic victory for those who believe divide and rule. Is not it ?

 

Nagas do keep talking about Integration; but the paradox is people are celebfating the other story. 

As for future -- I take shelter of writer James Baldwin --- 

"Children have never been very good at listening to their elders. But they have never failed to imitate them".

Congrats 'Eastern Nagaland' -- provided bigger celebration vis-a-vis Naga Solution also comes sooner than expected.

Ends