Ex-PAN Calls for Resolution of Naga Political Issue

The Ex-Parliamentarians Association of Nagaland (Ex-PAN) has urged the Central Government to finalize a common draft incorporating the agreements signed with Naga political groups.

This demand was part of three key resolutions passed during the general body meeting (GBM) held in Dimapur on March 14, according to a statement by Merentoshi R. Jamir, the association’s secretary.

Decades of Peace Talks, But No Resolution

During the meeting, former lawmakers discussed several critical issues affecting Nagaland, including:

• The unresolved Naga political issue
• The Free Movement Regime (FMR) and border fencing
• The 350-km-long Foothill Road construction project

The Ex-PAN emphasized that over seven decades of struggle and decades of peace negotiations should now result in a final settlement. The people of Nagaland seek development and progress like other Indian states, without unnecessary roadblocks.

Demand for Transparency on Framework Agreement

The Ex-PAN urged the Centre to publicly disclose the competencies outlined in the Framework Agreement signed with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland – Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) on August 3, 2015.

Additionally, it called for a unified draft of the:

• Framework Agreement (2015) with NSCN-IM
• Agreed Position (2017) with Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs)

They stressed that it is “beyond high time” for the Centre and negotiating parties to bring an early resolution to the long-standing issue.

Objections to Border Fencing & Scrapping of FMR

On the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and border fencing, Ex-PAN strongly opposed the Centre’s decision to:

• Scrap the FMR
• Construct border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border

According to the association, these decisions are against the will of the people. They urged the government to reinstate the FMR and halt the border fencing project.

Urgency of Nagaland’s Foothill Road Project

Ex-PAN also stressed the importance of constructing the Foothill Road, connecting Tizit in Mon district to Khelma in Peren district.

This 350-km-long road is a long-cherished dream of the people of Nagaland as it would allow free movement without crossing Assam, reducing dependence on neighboring states.

Conclusion

Nagaland’s former lawmakers are pressing the Indian government to take immediate action on these key issues. With decades of peace talks, they believe it’s time to deliver real progress for the people of Nagaland.