Govt signs peace accord with NSCN

The signing was held at Modi's official residence here at 7, Race Course Road.

The signing was held in the presence of PM Narendra Modi.

"I sincerely thank Shri Isak Swu, Shri Muivah and other Naga leaders for their wisdom and courage..I have the deepest admiration for the great Naga people for their extraordinary support to the peace efforts," Modi said.

Modi  expressed his confidence that the agreement will open a glorious new chapter for the Naga people to build a bright future for Nagaland and also contribute to the nation with a sense of pride.

Government’s Interlocutor for Naga Peace Talks, R.N. Ravi, signed the Agreement on behalf of the Government of India.

Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman and Th. Muivah, General Secretary were the signatories on behalf of the NSCN.

The entire top leadership of the NSCN (IM), including all members of the “collective leadership”, has fully endorsed the agreement and was present during the ceremony.

"This agreement will end the oldest insurgency in the country. It will restore peace and pave the way for prosperity in the North East. It will advance a life of dignity, opportunity and equity for the Naga people, based on their genius and consistent with the uniqueness of the Naga people and their culture and traditions," read a government statement.

Attempts were made from time to time to resolve the issue through discussion with representatives of the Naga people.

A fresh attempt for a comprehensive resolution was initiated with the NSCN in 1997.

"The sustained dialogue between the two sides, conducted in a spirit of equality, respect and trust, deepened their mutual understanding and confidence, and enabled the two sides to reach an equitable agreement. The Government of India recognized the unique history, culture and position of the Nagas and their sentiments and aspirations. The NSCN understood and appreciated the Indian political system and governance," read the statement.

"The Government interlocutor also held frequent consultations with broad spectrum of Naga leaders, including those from the traditional tribal bodies, civil society, youth and students’ bodies, women’s groups, elected representatives and other stakeholders. These consultations helped in distilling the popular aspirations of the Naga people and in enhancing a healthy atmosphere of trust and understanding," it said.

Th. Muivah, General Secretary, NSCN, narrated the history of Nagas’ struggle and thanked the Prime Minister for his vision and resolve, which made it possible for the Government of India and the NSCN to reach a settlement.

Modi has spoken with several political leaders, including former PM Manmohan Singh, following the signing of the pact.

"After the historic agreement between Government of India and NSCN, PM @narendramodi has spoken to the Governor and CM of Nagaland," PMO India tweeted.

"After the historic agreement between Government of India and NSCN, PM @narendramodi has spoken to former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh," it said.

"PM @narendramodi has spoken to Shri Mallikarjun Kharge on the historic agreement between Government of India and NSCN," it said.

He also spoke with Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav and CPI(M) leader  Sitaram Yechury.