NSCN-IM: No pact without separate flag, constitution

GUWAHATI: Saying that it is left with no option but to “act tough” as peace talks remain deadlocked, NSCN (IM) on Tuesday said a separate flag and constitution for the Naga people are “non-negotiable” and it will not accept any solution without them.
“We strongly detest any kind of piecemeal solution, short of Naga National Flag and Yehzabo (constitution). We have stood our ground on these two non-negotiable issues and we shall continue to do so till the last man standing. NSCN shall be failing before God and before the Naga people if we stumble at this most decisive moment of history. Naga people cannot be lured into accepting highly attractive economic packages at the expense of our exalted position with sovereign rights,” NSCN (IM) chairman Q Tuccu said in a statement.
He stated that the Goverment of India and NSCN (IM) are at the threshold of striking the final deal.

He added, “But the road to the final deal has become ticklish as the sensitive issue of Naga flag and Yehzabo (Naga constitution) remains the sticking point. For the Naga people, these two issues stand tall because they symbolise our political and national rights. The Government of India knows the political significance of these issues for the Naga people but comes short of giving official recognition to be made a part of the final agreement.”
As Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio prepares for a consultative meeting with the Naga civil socity and other stakeholders on the peace process on October 15 in Kohima, the NSCN (IM) chairman stated, “Our joint struggle with Naga people from all walks of life, including civil socities, churches, bureaucrats and politicians for over seven decades to live in dignity and peace should be given a new meaning. It is now or never. I urge Naga sons and daughters to give their concerted efforts till our rightful political destination is reached sooner than later.”