Naga political settlement and internal political disputes

Former Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. S. C. Jamir has called for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to use its influence with the central government to accelerate a resolution to the Naga political issue. Jamir expressed concern that public hope for a settlement is diminishing after two decades of negotiations, noting that the proliferation of various factions has led to governance breakdowns and the rise of extra-constitutional authorities.

Following these calls, leaders from the NSCN (I-M), including VS Atem and RH Raising, questioned Jamir’s authority to speak on the matter, with Raising describing him as “out and out Indian.” In response, several Naga organizations, such as the Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur (ASTD), the Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO), and the Ao Lanur Telongjem (ALT), defended Jamir’s right to participate in political discourse. These groups asserted that the Naga political issue belongs to all generations and that no single negotiating body holds exclusive authority over who may express views on collective political matters.

Conflict has since escalated regarding Jamir’s specific policy suggestions. The Naga People’s Front (NPF) rejected a proposal by Jamir to impose President’s Rule in the state, characterizing it as an attempt to suppress the population through “Army rule” and arguing it would worsen the impact of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). This rejection followed personal criticisms from Jamir against NPF Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon. Conversely, Nagaland BJP President Benjamin Yepthomi expressed support for Jamir’s stance on the Naga political issue, stating Jamir was “100% correct” and noting that many state legislators privately agree with him.