ANSAM to Boycott 78th Indian Independence Day Celebration

The All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has expressed profound concern over what it describes as the Government of India’s (GOI) detrimental policies regarding the long-standing Indo-Naga political negotiations. The association accuses the GOI of failing to honor the Framework Agreement signed on August 3, 2015, at the Prime Minister's residence in New Delhi.

The Framework Agreement, which was hailed as a historic accord, acknowledged the unique history and status of the Naga people, asserting their identity as distinct from India and Myanmar (formerly Burma). It also proposed mutual respect for the sovereignty and powers of both parties involved. Despite nearly 27 years of negotiation, ANSAM argues that the GOI has not adequately addressed core Naga demands including the recognition of the Naga Flag, Constitution, and Integration as fundamental rights.

ANSAM’s statement criticizes the GOI for what it perceives as a betrayal of the agreement’s spirit and for its ongoing provocations and policies against the Naga people. The association has questioned the Indian government’s commitment to resolving one of Southeast Asia’s longest-running political conflicts.

The Naga people had declared their independence from British rule on August 14, 1947, a day before India’s own independence, but ANSAM alleges that India’s forceful occupation and divisive policies have continued since then. As a form of protest and in light of the perceived disregard for their political rights, ANSAM has called for its members to boycott the 78th India Independence Day celebrations, urging a cessation of cooperation in Naga areas.