Naga political question persists amid leadership meetings and peace process delays

The Naga political question remains a central issue in Nagaland, involving long-standing negotiations such as the 2015 Framework Agreement and the 2017 Agreed Position. Recent developments include a meeting in New Delhi between Dr. S. C. Jamir and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, where Jamir sought to explain the Naga perspective and the constitutional context of Article 371A, urging the RSS to influence the Central Government toward an early settlement.

Simultaneously, the Nagaland Legislative Assembly’s Political Affairs Committee, led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, held consultations with NSCN (I-M) leaders regarding delays in the peace process. These discussions highlighted tensions regarding political authority and the mandate of individual leaders in representing the Naga people.

Observers note that the younger generation, specifically Gen Z, is inheriting a landscape marked by economic underdevelopment, unemployment, and institutional challenges. There are concerns that the protracted nature of the political conflict and systemic issues like corruption may leave a lasting impact on the social and economic future of those born after the ceasefire agreements.