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This is an archive article published on September 21, 2005

But NSCN(I-M) for firm undertaking

The NSCN (I-M) has sought a firm assurance from the Centre on the integration of all Naga-inhabited areas before the next round of talks tha...

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The NSCN (I-M) has sought a firm assurance from the Centre on the integration of all Naga-inhabited areas before the next round of talks that are likely to begin in October, a top Naga source said.

The Nagas have told the Centre that they were willing to engage the governments of Assam and Manipur to find a way out of their opposition to any move to take away Naga-inhabited areas of their states, the source said.

The NSCN (I-M) has also indicated that it would be willing to compromise on other demands. ‘‘Besides integration of Naga-inhabited areas, we have told the government that we are willing to consider an amicable compromise on other points,’’ the source said.

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NSCN (I-M) general secretary T H Muivah, who is in Bangkok will come to India as soon as the dates are decided, the source said. ‘‘But we want a firm assurance on the integration,’’ the source added. On whether they have considered pulling out of peace process, he said unless the Centre came up with a firm assurance, they would be left with no option but to renew the struggle.

The Nagas had last year submitted a 30-point charter to the government. Their key demands include integration of Naga-inhabited areas, raising of a separate Naga force which will work with the Army to protect the border of Nagaland, and a ‘‘special federal relationship’’ with India.

The Naga peace talks that began early this year had hit a major hurdle during the blockade of Manipur by the Naga student organisations.

As a result, when the ceasefire between NSCN(I-M) and the Centre came up for renewal on July 31, the Nagas proposed a one-month extension. After negotiations, it was extended by six months, instead of the intended one year.

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