Kohima: The Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (WC, NNPGs) has cautioned that any oil or mineral exploration in Naga territories before a final political settlement is reached is illegal. The group maintains such actions violate principles established during negotiations with the Government of India, specifically under the Agreed Position signed on November 17, 2017.
According to the group, the 2017 agreement ensures the Nagaland Tatar Hoho will act as the apex body overseeing land and natural resource governance. They argue that proceeding with resource extraction now essentially assumes the authority of a post-solution government, which does not yet exist. The WC, NNPGs stated it will "peacefully or otherwise" ensure that no companies, whether national or international, extract crude petroleum from Naga soil until the peace deal is finalized.
The organization also addressed the status of the Disturbed Area Belt, describing it as a historical and legal component of the Naga homeland. They stated that revenue-sharing agreements between Nagaland and Assam are not in the interest of the Naga people. While current opposition from civil society is justified, the group noted that companies like Oil India Limited, ONGC, and IOC could become development partners once the political status is resolved.
The agreement was originally signed by former interlocutor RN Ravi and WC, NNPGs Convener N Kitovi Zhimomi. As negotiations continue, the group is urging the government to expedite the formal signing of the settlement, emphasizing that the Naga people are ready to partner with the Centre to develop the region.
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