PM Manmohan Singh statement may affect Naga peace process: NSCN(I-M)

KOHIMA: The NSCN(I-M) on Wednesday said the recent statement of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the territorial integrity of Manipur was 'unfortunate' and it might affect the on-going Naga peace process.

During his visit to Imphal with UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi on December 3, Singh had said "the central government is committed to the territorial integrity of Manipur". This statement was made amidst media reports that the Centre was planning a 'supra state' for Nagas in the Northeast.

The prime minister's statement was a "cause for concern, as it may adversely affect the on-going Indo-Naga peace process", an NSCN(IM) release said.

The 'shocked' Nagas were viewing this statement as "a u-turn to the commitment of seeking the Indo-Naga solution outside the box and to walk the extra mile to seek an Honourable political solution in the shortest possible time", the NSCN(I-M) said.

At the invitation of the Government of India, the NSCN(I-M) said, the two sides have been talking across the table for the last 14 years to seek a solution through political means and gave its commitment for a negotiated honourable settlement.

The release, issued by information and publicity wing of the organization, said "Historically, the Nagas have their distinct culture and territory under the administrative jurisdiction of the respective chiefs or kings of the villages from time immemorial" and they were not a part of Manipur.