Despite strong opposition of neighbouring states, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today favoured integration of Naga-inhabited areas in the Northeast with his state, saying such a move will bring peace in the state.
Rio said Nagaland Assembly had thrice adopted resolutions favouring integration of Naga-dominated areas in Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam with Nagaland.
"Naga people wants integration of Naga areas. It will bring peace," he told reporters after a meeting with Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde.
Nagaland's neighbouring states Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam are vehemently opposed to any move for integration of Naha-inhabited areas, a demand raised by Naga insurgent group NSCN(IM) which has been engaged in peace talks with the government.
The Chief Minister also urged the Home Minister to expedite the peace negotiation with NSCN(IM) saying 16 years of dialogue was yet to bring any solution to Nagaland's insurgency problem.
"I have urged the Home Minister to offer a package of solution to NSCN(IM) so that it can discuss the offer with Naga civil society. It will help in bringing a solution," he said.
National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah had entered into a ceasefire with the Centre in 1997. So far, over 60 rounds of talks have taken place between NSCN-IM leaders and the Centre's representatives.
