Centre-NSCN (IM) talks moving along positive lines

Kohima (Nagaland), June 5 (ANI): Talks between the Central Government and the leadership of the rebel NSCN (IM) are going positive lines, according to representatives of both sides.

Both sides have resolved to find a solution to what has been a vexed six-decade-old issue at the end of a second round of talks held for the first time in Nagaland.

The venue was the Heritage Complex in Kohima.

Central Government interlocutor and former Nagaland Chief Secretary R S Pandey, assured the 12-member NSCN (IM) team, led by Thuigaleng Muivah, of New Delhi's intention to pursue peace talks and to work out an early "negotiated settlement" to the Naga political problem.

The Central team added that the solution would be acceptable to both sides.

"The talks are moving on positive lines, we have recognized Naga uniqueness and history, GOI has already stated this, with mutual respect for each other, both sides are committed towards finding an honorable solution, which will be on the basis of negotiations. Nothing is to be imposed on each other," Pandey said.

"There must be solution and that solution must be honorable, acceptable to both, it must be through negotiation that has been his (Prime Minister) commitment. And, I would rather say that Mr. Prime Minster is sincere enough, serious enough," added NSCN (IM eneral Secretary Thuigaleng Muivah.

The NSCN (IM)'s demand for Naga integration has been strongly opposed by non-Nagas in Manipur and they boycotted his visit to Manipur.

In retaliation, the Nagas in Manipur blocked National Highways 53 and 39, which has crippled normal life in Manipur.

The crisis in Manipur has been a cause of concern for both the state and the Centre.

Union Home Minister P.Chidambaram said: "The security situation in Manipur was a cause for concern. (+) To ensure peace, five additional battalions of CPMFs (Central Paramilitary Force) were deployed. Services of IAF aircraft were made available for airlifting essential items to Manipur. NH 53 was reopened for traffic on May 21, 2010 and there is now uninterrupted supply of goods to Manipur. However, the situation remains under constant watch."

The Centre has made it clear that no state boundary could be altered without the required consensus.

The ongoing political negotiations are 'sensitive'. And, to find an amicable solution, the The Centre's interlocutor for Naga talks has invited Muivah for the next round of parleys in New Delhi. (ANI)