Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi here on Saturday made it clear that his government was not going to accept any proposal of the home ministry intruding or giving access to NSCN (I-M) into the rights of the state. Referring the
proposed special category state (Supra State) status for Nagaland and formation of councils for Naga-dominated areas in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, Mr Gogoi told reporters, “Though, we have no official information regarding such proposal reported in media but I would like to make it clear that such solution will not help the region rather it will create more problems.”
In reference to a report published by this newspaper on Thursday, Mr Gogoi said, “I would like to request the home ministry to take the stakeholder states into confidence before giving a final nod to the ongoing peace-talks with NSCN (I-M).”
Pointing out that he opposed the extension of cease-fire with NSCN (I-M) in Assam, Mr Gogoi asserted, “I opposed it during the NDA regime and I will continue to oppose any such move during the UPA regime also.” He warned that any move to create council for Nagas in Assam, Arunachal and Manipur would open the Pandora’s box and many other coummunities may also start demanding community based councils. Joining the chorus with Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh, Mr Gogoi said that New Delhi should clarify the media reports proposing special category state status for Nagaland and councils in Naga dominated areas of neighbouring states.
Similar views were echoed in Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh, the two other states that have Naga dominated areas, which NSCN (I-M) had been pressing for its inclusion in their earlier demand of greater Nagaland.