Kohima: The Eastern Flank of the NSCN (IM) has leveled serious allegations against the Hebron leadership, accusing them of abandoning the 2015 Framework Agreement in favor of a compromised position. In a recent statement, the group rejected a mandate to take a formal Oath of Allegiance, opting instead to reaffirm their commitment to historical Naga mandates, including the 1929 Memorandum to the Simon Commission and the 1947 declaration of independence.
The dissidents claim that the central leadership failed to act after the Government of India rejected demands for a separate Naga flag and constitution. According to the Eastern Flank, this inaction signaled a shift toward settling within the Indian constitutional framework, which they argue contradicts the spirit of the peace process. The group stated that the Government of India has “effectively backtracked and betrayed the Agreement.”
Specific grievances include the removal of key military commanders and the dismantling of strategic structures established in 2019. The statement singles out former Longvibu Gen. Anthony Ningkhan Shimray, alleging he attempted to force favorable terms for the Indian government and deployed forces against internal dissenters. The faction also condemned a 2026 incident at Hongbei village that resulted in the deaths of four Eastern Flank members, labeling it an act of hypocrisy.
Despite the severe internal friction, the Eastern Flank maintains they are not seceding. They expressed support for non-cooperation measures initiated by Tangkhul civil society organizations and welcomed the alliance of senior leaders Ikato I Chishi Swu and Victor Angami. The group insists their current course of action is intended to protect the national movement from surrender.
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