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Rengmas demand autonomous council in Assam

By Correspondent

DIMAPUR, Sept 21 - While welcoming and supporting the framework agreement signed between the Government of India and the NSCN-IM, the Rengma Hoho, the apex body of Rengma Nagas, has requested Centre�s interlocutor for Naga talks RN Ravi and NSCN-IM leaders to formulate a structure whereby an autonomous council is formulated for Rengmas in Assam. The Rengma Hoho, in a release, pointed out that the Rengmas were arbitrarily divided between Assam and Nagaland and those in Assam deprived and dehumanised even on basic human needs. It stated that it is open to physical verification to verify Rengma lands.

Deliberating on the present Naga political scenario at its meeting on September 19, the Rengma Hoho viewed the framework agreement as a �positive step towards finding a solution to the protracted Indo-Naga political problem.�

Stating that Rengmas share a major portion of the Naga problem, it asserted that Rengmas had contributed significantly to the Naga political struggle citing the first Naga flag which was designed and woven by a Rengma woman and hoisted on Rengma soil.

The Rengma Hoho reiterated that Rengmas have never been confused over the Naga political issue as they always stood for a peaceful negotiated settlement. It suggested that if the ongoing talks between the Government of India and NSCN-IM ushered in mutual understanding and respect for each other�s rights, then it should be agreed upon by both sides to implement and protect it under the clause.

It, however, opined that in the event of any final solution, all leaders of Naga political groups, stakeholders and tribes should be taken on board in the formation of the policy. Further, the Hoho made it clear that prejudices and partisanship at the present juncture would not be good for the Nagas.

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