DIMAPUR, May 14: The Naga Hoho has renewed its call for unity and introspection in light of the prolonged delay in resolving the Indo-Naga political issue, which it attributes to “various reasons best known to the negotiating parties.”

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the apex Naga civil organisation voiced concern over the fragmented opinions driven by “state-centric and regional interests,” which continue to hamper progress in the Indo-Naga political negotiations.

The Naga Hoho highlighted its consistent efforts over the years to foster unity and reconciliation among diverse Naga organisations, aiming to support and advance the peace process. While it acknowledged the valuable contributions of successive leaderships in sustaining the dialogue, it also lamented the delays in reaching a resolution, emphasizing that the causes remain known only to those directly involved in the negotiations.

“We have no reason to blame others but ourselves,” the statement read, calling on the Naga people to reflect on their own role in what it described as the “destruction of the fabric of the Indo-Naga political talks.” The organisation further stated, “It is in the interest of the adversaries that we have defeated ourselves and become enemies of our own selves.”

The Hoho also addressed the issue of tribal dissociation from the organisation, particularly from Nagaland. Despite these departures, it asserted that the organisation’s legitimacy and continued existence remain intact, citing representation from Naga communities in Manipur, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh, as well as ongoing support from segments within Nagaland.

Reaffirming its commitment to reconciliation, the Naga Hoho emphasized its dedication to bridging divides among Naga political groups, putting an end to fratricidal violence, and working collectively towards resolving the Indo-Naga political issue.

“Furthermore, Naga Hoho, the apex body of civil organisations, has urged all the tribe leaders from the Nagas of Nagaland to join the Naga Hoho and seek to address the Naga political problem based on ‘contemporary realities,’ and also to work selflessly towards bringing about peace and unity among the Nagas, irrespective of the Naga-inhabited areas,” the statement concluded.

The Naga Hoho’s appeal serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for unity and collective responsibility in the face of a protracted and complex peace process.