Centre, NSCN-IM have laid framework for peace in NE: Rijiju

The Centre and the NSCN-IM have laid a framework that will usher in peace in the Northeast, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said here today.
"A framework has been laid for bringing peace. Government will announce details soon," he said on the sidelines of a function here.
Rijiju was replying when asked about the salient features of the agreement signed by the NSCN-IM and the government yesterday.
"The Prime Minister has spoken yesterday about the agreement," he said.
Meanwhile, official sources said the agreement for peace has been put together after consultations with all stakeholders like Naga Hoho, Naga Students Federation, Naga Mothers Federation, the elected representative of Nagaland and Naga elected representatives of Manipur.

All stakeholders were involved because the government doesn't want a repeat of the Shillong Accord of 1975 after which NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chishi Swu, general secretary Th Muivah broke away and formed a group.

Sources said micro details of the peace plan will have to be worked out and will take some more time.
Both sides have worked out an in-principle agreement, they said.
In the agreement, the government has accepted the uniqueness of Naga history and culture.
The Nagas have accepted the primacy of the Indian Constitution, NSCN-IM demand for sovereignty has been addressed by stating that sovereignty lies with the people and not governments and that Nagas have as much right over India as India has over Nagaland.

Sources said political integration of Naga inhabited areas have been ruled out because of opposition from neighbouring states but government will strive to help the Nagas achieve cultural integration and preservation of language.
Sourced also said government is willing to consider devolution of more powers to Nagaland legislature under article 371 A which is already in force.