'Some progress on Indo-Naga peace talks'

Kohima, Jul 21: Union Minister of State for Programme Implementation (Independent Charge) Oscar Fernandes has claimed of "some progress" in the last round of Indo-Naga peace talks between Government and the NSCN-IM in Amsterdam.

Mr Fernandes, who was in a dinner hosted by Nagaland Home Minister Thenucho here last night, said after appointment as the leader of the Ministerial Team for the talks with NSCN-IM, he was thinking of meeting leaders of Naga civil societies and political parties and this time he would meet all the leaders of Nagaland to review their opinion on the peace talks.

He said the talks between the Government and the NSCN-IM was going in a right direction and both the parties would be able to find an amicable solution to the Naga political issue.

On the inter-factional clashes between the rival factions of NSCN, Mr Fernandes said the Ceasefire Ground Rules, agreed by the NSCN factions with the Government, should be implemented properly to stop the inter-factional clashes as the people of the state want a peaceful atmosphere.

Earlier, Nagaland Urban Development Minister Shurhozelie welcomed Mr Fernandes and the leaders of various NGOs.

In his speech he claimed that the law and order situation in the state is under control and the State Government is trying to discourage the clashes as the Naga people want peace.

He said Mr. Fernandes's visit is very significant as he is going to meet the civil societies and it is an opportunity for the Naga leaders to express their views on the Naga political problem.

Mr. Fernandes arrived at Dimapur yesterday. He was received by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

Mr Fernandes would meet Nagaland Governor Shyamal Datta today. It would be followed by interactions with various NGOs and political parties.

The NGOs included Eastern Naga Public Organization (ENPO), Naga Students' Federation (NSF), Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), Naga Mothers' Association (NMA), Kohima Municipal Council and political parties of the state.

He would also meet the official members of Cease Fire Monitoring Group (CFMG) at the Raj Bhawan here following which he would leave for Dimapur.

UNI