Shillong, July 13: The Central Government interlocutor in the peace talks between New Delhi and the NSCN-IM K Padmanabhaiah has expressed strong optimism in the ongoing peace talk between the NSCN-IM and the Government of India.

Significantly the observation of K Padmanabhaiah came following the order from NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chisi Swu directing the cadres of the outfit to remain alert and vigilant in view of the unpredictable situation.

The peace talk between the NSCN-IM and the Government of India is reported to have been slated to begin from July 20 and the current ceasefire term between the two parties expires on July 31.Exclusively speaking to Newmai News Network today in Shillong, Padmanabhaiah said, "in spite of the newspapers reports, the current peace talks between the NSCN-IM and the Government of India is on the right track and the success will definitely make other insurgent groups follow suit".

The statement assumes significance in view of the doubts raised by the ULFA and the other insurgent groups on the sincerity of the Central Government in understanding their demands.

Expressing his optimism by sidelining all notions of a likely pullout due to simmering differences with the NSCN (IM) leadership, Padmanabhiah stated, " we might have had hiccups, but this is the time where both sides should go for a serious introspection to understand our position", adding, "whatever progress or regress we make, our own realization will help our efforts to fructify".

Notwithstanding the NSCN-IM leadership's expression of displeasure and the veiled threat issued from time to time, Padmanabhaiah said that speculations apart, every hiccup we encountered is accompanied by a step in the right direction.

"We are going to meet the Naga leaders from July 20 and there is another step we will make", stated the peace broker.

He also said that there is no time limit set to further break the ice , but the objective is to bring about lasting peace in the North East.

Comment