Peace Talks: Differences continue between NDPP, NPF

In an unprecedented move, leader of the ruling NDPP-led coalition in Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio and Leader of Opposition and veteran NPF leader TR Zeliang came together for a joint press

In an unprecedented move, leader of the ruling NDPP-led coalition in Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio and Leader of Opposition and veteran NPF leader TR Zeliang came together for a joint press briefing as a show of unity for the cause of early solution to the Naga political issue. 

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio too started on a positive note, backing Zeliang in reiterating that there can only be one solution.

But the euphoria over expectations of unity between the political rivals was short-lived with visible differences cropping up with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio indirectly dismissing more than one suggestion made by Zeliang.  

Continuing to ignore the Joint Legislators Forum, Zeliang batted for formation of an alternative platform, a parliamentary forum to be precise, with all elected 60 members and 2 state MPs as members, to facilitate an early settlement to the Naga Political issue.

Rio however, had a different opinion on the issue and termed the proposal unnecessary. He further appealed to NPF to re-join the JLF.

Differences were also visible between the two with Rio claiming that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had asked Zeliang to endorse the resolution of the recent consultative meet on Naga Peace Talks held by the state government thus leading to today’s joint briefing. Zeliang, however, claimed it was not Shah, but NEDA convenor Himanta Biswa Sarma, who asked the NPF to endorse the resolution.

Veteran NPF leader TR Zeliang also urged Chief Minister Rio for a special session of the Nagaland Assembly for passing a resolution on the peace talks. Rio, meanwhile, reiterated that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also endorsed the fact that solution needs to be inclusive. 

COMMENTS