A newly formed youth-led movement, Fed-Up Nagas (FUN), has announced a peaceful public rally on June 27 to press for the implementation of long-pending Naga political agreements and to draw attention to what it described as the prolonged delay in resolving the Naga political issue. Addressing a press conference at Oak House in Dimapur, members of the committee said the rally would be a collective appeal for the future of the Naga people and not a protest against any individual, organisation or group. FUN member Mughali Naga said the movement was driven by growing concerns among citizens, particularly young people, over the lack of progress on the political issue. She said unemployment and economic difficulties have affected many youths in the state and argued that implementation of the existing agreements could help create a more favourable environment for investment, industrial growth and employment generation. “This is a call for positive change and a better future for our people,” she said, urging youths, churches, civil society organisations and citizens from all walks of life to participate in the rally. Another member, Atoke Naga, clarified that FUN is neither a political party nor a tribal organisation but a people’s movement formed out of frustration over the prolonged delay in resolving the issue. He said the movement remains committed to peaceful, democratic and inclusive means of engagement.
According to Atoke, FUN’s demand is centred on the implementation of the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position, which he said should be honoured as commitments already made. He maintained that years of delay have contributed to uncertainty, slowed economic growth and forced many young Nagas to seek employment opportunities outside the state. “Many talented Naga youths are using their skills elsewhere because opportunities at home remain limited,” he said. He also expressed concern that the continued delay was gradually weakening public confidence and trust. Appealing to Naga leaders to work together, Atoke urged the Government of India to fulfil its commitments and bring the process to a logical conclusion. He said every year without a solution affects the aspirations of the younger generation and delays opportunities for progress. He also encouraged young people to remain politically aware and engaged. “Politics affects our rights, opportunities and future. Awareness means staying informed, asking questions and participating peacefully in democratic processes,” he said. FUN member T. Molung Naga questioned the reasons behind the prolonged delay and called on both the state and central governments to demonstrate sincerity in addressing the issue. He said the movement has no political or personal agenda and seeks only to amplify public concerns.
“If we remain silent, who will build our Nagaland?” he asked while appealing to students, organisations and members of the public to join the June 27 rally. Responding to questions from the media, FUN member Kuhoto Naga said the group has not formally approached the state government regarding its concerns but remains open to dialogue. He said members have been engaging with different stakeholders and gathering public opinion in an effort to build a common understanding on the issue. Supporting the movement’s stand, Idizeung Naga questioned calls for further negotiations and argued that attention should instead be focused on implementing agreements that have already been signed. He said FUN aims to rise above tribal and organisational differences and promote unity among all Nagas. “We want people to think as Nagas first, beyond narrow divisions,” he said while appealing to tribal bodies, civil society organisations and the public to support the initiative. Addressing speculation regarding funding and possible hidden agendas, Idizeung said the movement is run collectively by a committee without formal positions and is supported voluntarily by citizens, businesspersons, elders and well-wishers. He added that details of funds received and expenditures would be made public in due course. FUN members said the June 27 rally will be followed by the submission of a memorandum to the Government of India. According to Atoke Naga, the memorandum will include a deadline and a renewed appeal for action on the Naga political issue, while urging people across Nagaland to participate in the movement.
