HT Correspondent
DIMAPUR, Feb 20: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday stressed the need for unity among Nagas and renewed political engagement with the Centre, stating that the opposition-less government in 2026 is focused on resolving the Naga political issue.
Addressing a grand reception at the NPF office in Chümoukedima, Rio briefed party leaders on his recent visit to New Delhi, discussions on the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA), financial concerns and other key policy matters.
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Detailing his February 3 meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Rio said a Political Affairs sub-committee represented the state to discuss constitutional provisions, the Naga flag and integration issues. Shah agreed to process the Naga political issue at the political and ministerial level and to form a committee with officials and intelligence experts for further dialogue.
On FNTA, Rio described it as an administrative arrangement to address developmental aspirations in eastern Nagaland while maintaining state unity. Highlighting financial concerns ahead of the 16th Finance Commission, he cautioned against inadequate funding, informing Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman that it could trigger public unrest.
On Manipur, Rio said discussions involved BJP Northeast in-charge Sambit Patra and explored inclusive arrangements among Meiteis, Nagas and Kukis, proposing Deputy Chief Minister positions for Naga and Kuki leaders. He cautioned against contradictory statements by leaders, including those associated with former Chief Minister S C Jamir, which could weaken the state’s negotiating position.
Regarding the proposed visit of American evangelist Franklin Graham, Rio noted the Government of India granted conditional permission, which organisers did not accept. He also addressed issues on Protected Area Permit (PAP), Free Movement Regime (FMR), border concerns and oil and gas exploration along the Assam-Nagaland border, with a Cabinet sub-committee formed for deliberations.
Rio highlighted the importance of emotional, cultural and social integration of Nagas across states for a durable settlement, even if physical integration is not immediately feasible. He said PAC would continue engagement with Naga national groups and party leaders should strengthen the organisation at all levels.
Earlier, NPF Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon said the party delegation led by Rio pressed Amit Shah to restore Naga political talks to the political track and raised issues including PAP, border fencing and appointing a political representative for the Naga issue. The tripartite FNTA agreement was termed a significant milestone following the September 12, 2024 consensus resolution.
NPF Advisor Abu Metha highlighted the party’s growing role in Manipur, with five MLAs in the ruling alliance and a Deputy Chief Minister post, urging unity among Nagas across states. Rio thanked party leaders and supporters for the grand reception and said the smooth NPF-NDPP merger reflects the spirit of unity in the state.
