The whole Northeast region is waiting anxiously to know the outcome of the Naga peace talks. The talks between Naga rebel groups and the government of India concluded on 31 October. It is believed that the main differences between the Centre and the NSCN (IM) have been ironed out for now. The NSCN (IM) has reportedly agreed not to pursue the demand for a separate constitution, and in return the Centre has agreed to allow them to use the Naga flag. It is still assumed, and until the agreement is properly signed and the contents are out, nothing will be clear. However, there is no word on the contentious demand for a greater Nagalim, encompassing areas in the Naga inhabited areas of Assam, Arunachal and Manipur.
The Centre has assured to consult all stakeholders, including the three states sharing boundaries with Nagaland, before finalizing any settlement in the Naga peace process. This has come as a big relief to the three states. All the three states oppose the demand of the NSCN (IM). There is a sense of uneasiness prevailing, especially in Manipur. NSCN (IM) general secretary T Muivah is a Tangkhul Naga from Ukhrul district of Manipur. The Centre should now immediately start consultations with the stakeholders and the governments of the three states. Taking them into confidence, the peace process with the Naga rebel groups should be concluded at the earliest. They will be committing a gross mistake if they use the opposition from Assam, Arunachal and Manipur to the demand for a greater Nagalim to further delay the signing of the agreement. It is for the benefit of whole Northeast region in particular and India in general that the Naga peace talks conclude successfully and at the earliest.