Centre, Muivah to have second round of talks in Nagaland on Monday

DIMAPUR - The Central Government has said that it is looking forward to having a second round of talks with NSCN-IM leadership in Nagaland to end the stalemate over Naga leader Thuigaleng Muivah’s resolve to visit his birthplace Somdal in Manipur’s Ukhrul District.

The next round of talks will be held on Monday at the Naga Heritage Village at Kisama, which is about 5 kilometers state capital Kohima, reliable sources said.

The decision to resume the talks in Nagaland has been welcomed by the people of Nagaland.

Pfoshuo Ariicho, a freelance journalist based in Nagaland says, “I’m sure the Centre and the NSCN (IM) will reach a very amicable solution this time”.

“The peace talk, which is going to be held in the land of the Nagas is a very positive step and also recognition of the uniqueness of the Naga people,” Ariicho added.

“It’s a step worth welcoming,” said M. Odyou, a student activist.

Muivah will lead the Naga leadership at the May 31 talks.

Except for the Centre’s interlocutor in the talks, it is not yet known who else will represent it at the talks.

Muivah along with senior leaders of the group is still camping at Viswema near Manipur-Nagaland border.

The ensuing peace talks, to be held next week, will be the first of its kind in Nagaland during the discourse of 13 years of Naga peace process since all official dialogue between the two sides were held either in Delhi or abroad towards finding a honorable settlement to the long-drawn Naga political conflict. (ANI)