After NSCN Leader's 'Naga Integration' Remark, Neighbouring States Concerned

Guwahati: With details of this month's peace accord between the Centre and the rebel group Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) or NSCN (IM) still not known, there is worry in the North-East after Naga leader Thuingaleng Muivah said in speeches that "Naga integration" is part of the accord's agenda.

One of the key demands of the NSCN (IM) has for long been a "greater Nagaland" that will include Naga-dominated portions of neighbouring states Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur.

Government sources have said that the accord to end the oldest insurgency in the country does not envisage a redrawing of borders, but the Centre's silence on the deal and Mr Muivah's speeches have fuelled concern.

The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union or AAPSU has vowed to oppose the agreement if it in any way impacts the territory of its state. In Manipur, political parties agreed to pass a resolution through the assembly to protect the state's territorial integrity.

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi of the Congress has accused the BJP-led centre and the NSCN(IM) of creating confusion in the region. "Why is there so much secrecy? People want to know how the agreement will pave the way for peace," Mr Gogoi said.

On August 14, Mr Muivah, the face of the Centre-NSCN(IM) negotiations, claimed that his major demands of "Naga sovereignty" and "Naga integration" have not been compromised in the deal.

Many see in Mr Muivah's statements a message to New Delhi and other NSCN factions that he is sticking to his demands. It also re-united his core constituency - Nagas living in other states, thousands of who are now camping in Nagaland capital Dimapur, waiting to speak to Mr Muivah.  

But other NSCN factions, which have more support within Nagaland, say they are not privy to the contours of the accord and so cannot answer critical questions being asked.

"It is still unclear whether peace will continue after the accord. Confusion still remains after three accords. The key issue is still sovereignty. Nagas primarily want peace" said Nivibo Sumi, a young lecturer and blogger in Dimapur.