Nagas Share Their Struggle, Concerns

Bangalore, Oct 31 : Voices from the distant hills of Nagaland are echoing in Bangalore. The Naga community and leaders held a vibrant festival of Naga arts and crafts and cultural performances at the `at the Bishop Cotton Boys School on Saturday.

The performance was followed by a panel discussion on `Indo-Naga peace process __ difficulties and prospects' by Naga leaders who came from Kohima.

President Naga Ho Ho, Kevilotuo, shared the six decades of Naga struggle with the audience. He recollected the initial 16 point-agreement that created the state of Nagaland and said the Nagas were then divided into the four North Eastern states. In 1964, there was a ceasefire with the Indian government, but problems continued.

"In 1997, there was a ceasefire again. It's been 13 years since then and we still haven't reached a negotiation. The Indian government has to be sincere about the peace talks that we are having. The Naga journey is one of self determination and fight for independence. Our movement is for an independent nation but that doesn't mean that we cannot have peace," he said.

Speaking about the unique cultural identity and different topography of Nagaland, he added that their uniqueness has to be recognized. "Nagaland is a nation in the making and we want our message to reach all parts of India. India is a friend and we have now come to tell our story to the south of India. I am hopeful that we will achieve a resolution," he added.

President, Naga Students Federation, Metsekaoya Yhobo, said they had given several representations to the government of India and had met the Prime Minister too. "India has been insincere in dealing with our problems. The desire of the young Nagas is to work together for a resolution," he said.