In 2024, Thuingaleng Muivah, one of the most influential figures in the Naga political movement, reached a landmark age of 90. Serving as the General Secretary and Ato Kilonser (Prime Minister) of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM), Muivah has dedicated 60 years to advancing the Naga nationalist cause. His leadership has shaped the NSCN-IM’s approach to autonomy and sovereignty for Nagalim, a region encompassing Naga-inhabited areas across northeastern India and parts of Myanmar.
Step 1: Early Life and Political Entry
Thuingaleng Muivah, born in 1934 in Somdal, Manipur, joined the Naga National Council (NNC) in the early 1960s, influenced by a deep commitment to the Naga people’s right to self-determination. By 1964, he became the NNC’s General Secretary, initiating his decades-long journey in the Naga movement. Muivah and Isak Chishi Swu later formed the NSCN in 1980 due to ideological differences within the NNC, laying the foundation for a stronger push for an independent Naga identity. Under Muivah's leadership, the NSCN-IM gained widespread recognition and support among Nagas, particularly in the 1990s, as it became part of the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) in 1993, amplifying the Naga cause on an international stage.
Step 2: Framework Agreement and Political Negotiations
One of the defining moments of Thuingaleng Muivah’s career came in 2015 when he and NSCN-IM’s late chairman Isak Chishi Swu signed the Framework Agreement with the Indian government, symbolising a step toward resolving the Naga issue through political dialogue rather than violence. The Framework Agreement was hailed as a milestone, acknowledging the “unique history” and autonomy of the Naga people within India. Despite hopes that the agreement would lead to a peaceful solution, the negotiation process remains complex and protracted, with issues surrounding Naga sovereignty and autonomy yet unresolved in 2024. Muivah’s insistence on maintaining the Naga identity, distinct from the Indian state, has kept the negotiations at a standstill, as he refuses to compromise on key demands for greater autonomy for Nagalim.
Step 3: A Legacy of Leadership and Recognition in 2024
At 90, Muivah remains a respected figure across the Naga territories, celebrated for his decades of service and dedication. In March 2024, an event at Camp Hebron commemorated his six decades in service, attended by numerous Naga organisations, including the Naga Hoho and Naga Students' Federation. In his speech, Muivah urged Nagas to continue striving for their rights, emphasising that these rights are inherent and should not be compromised. Leaders of NSCN-IM, including Vice-President Tongmeth Wangnao, praised Muivah’s resilience and revolutionary leadership, which has brought international attention to the Naga cause over the decades.
Step 4: Ongoing Influence and Future Directions
Muivah’s influence extends beyond the NSCN-IM to the larger Naga population, including civil society groups and local organisations who recognise his contribution to the Naga nationalist movement. Even as the political negotiations continue, Muivah’s steadfast position keeps him at the centre of the Naga quest for self-determination. However, in recent years, the Indian government’s stance on the Naga issue has hardened, with the Framework Agreement facing challenges as tensions rise over its interpretation. As 2024 progresses, both the Naga population and the Indian government anticipate further developments, yet Muivah’s enduring influence assures his continued leadership in navigating the Naga struggle.
In conclusion, Thuingaleng Muivah’s role in the Naga nationalist movement remains pivotal, even as he marks his 90th year. From his early days with the NNC to his leadership in the NSCN-IM, Muivah’s life has been defined by an unwavering commitment to his people’s right to autonomy and identity. His legacy is a testament to the Naga people’s resilience, inspiring future generations to continue advocating for their rights amid complex political negotiations with India
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