President asked to solve vexed Naga issue

KOHIMA: The apex body of all tribal organisations in Nagaland, has sought the intervention of President Pranab Mukherjee for an 'honourable and peaceful' solution to the contentious Naga problem.

"We would greatly appreciate and expect your kind intervention to bring about an honourable and peaceful solution to the Indo-Naga conflict," said a memorandum submitted by the Naga Hoho to the President at Raj Bhavan here last evening.

The President arrived here on a two-day visit to the state yesterday.

Stating that talks between different Naga political groups and union government began since signing of the ceasefire in 1997, the tribal body also sought withdrawal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act ( AFSPA) from the state.

The memorandum, signed by its president Keviletuo Kiewhuo and general secretary P Keviletuo Kiewhuo, also appealed to the President to ensure setting up of one medical and engineering college each in the state.