NSCN-IM threatens armed violence for first time after signing framework agreement in 2015

NSCN-IM threatens armed resistance against India if demands for separate flag and constitution are not met.

For the first time since signing a framework agreement in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) has issued a statement threatening to “resume violent armed resistance against India”. The NSCN-IM warned it would resume the struggle if the Centre does not agree for third-party intervention to address its demands, which include a separate flag and constitution for the Nagas.

It said that that “the violent confrontation shall be purely on account of the deliberate betrayal and breach of commitment by India and its leadership to respect and honour the letter and spirit of the framework agreement (FA) of August 3, 2015”.

Signed by T. Muivah, general secretary, NSCN and “chief political negotiator”, the statement said that NSCN shall defend and protect the unique history, sovereignty, freedom, territory, flag and constitution for the Nagas “come what may”.

A government source said the statement has been drafted in the name of Mr. Muivah by his two China-based aides Phunthing Shimray and Pamshin Muivah. The 90-year-old is not keeping well and has not been part of recent negotiations with the government, the source added. He is presently at his residence at Hebron camp in Dimapur.

On September 20, Pamshin Muivah was appointed as national security adviser of NSCN.

The armed insurgent group signed a ceasefire agreement with the Union government in 1997.

The statement said that Mr. Muivah and his friend late Isak Chishi Swu joined the negotiations in 1997 to resolve the “Naga political issue” through peaceful negotiations.