New Delhi: A landmark peace accord was signed between the government and National Socialist Council of Nagaland-IM here on Monday.
The accord was inked in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Rajnath Singh. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval was also present.
NSCN-IM leader T. Muivah, who signed the pact, described it as a momentous occasion. In his brief comments, he praised Mahatma Gandhi who, he said, had understood and respected the Nagas.
He lauded the "visionary leadership" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Besides NSCN(I-M) chief Thuingaleng Muivah, other leaders of the group were also present.
Speaking on the occasion, Muivah said, "I thank God for this momentous occasion. Naga people have great respect for Mahatma Gandhi. We appreciate the statesmanship of (former PM) Atal Bihar Vajpayee."
Praising Modi, he said, "Under PM Narendra Modi, we have come close to understand each other, and worked out a new relation between the two parties ... Nagas will forever remember you for your statesmanship."
After Muivah finished his speech, the Prime Minister described as "historic" the signing of the peace accord.
He said, "The Nagaland political issue had lingered for six decades, taking a huge toll on generations of our people."
He praised NSCN (IM) leaders Muivah and Isak Swu for showing "wisdom and courage" and for making this effort which resulted in the historical agreement.
"I have the deepest admiration for the great Naga people for their extraordinary support to the peace efforts," he said.
"My relationship with the northeast has been deep. I have travelled to Nagaland on many occasions. I have been deeply impressed by the rich and diverse culture and the unique way of life of the Naga people."
The Prime Minister said, "... unfortunately, the Naga problem has taken so long to resolve because we did not understand each other."
"The Naga courage and commitment are legendary. Equally, they represent the highest levels of humanism," he added.
