New Delhi, October 25

With the government firm on “one flag, one Constitution”, talks between the Centre’s interlocutor RN Ravi and representatives of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) remained inconclusive on Thursday, hinting that negotiations on the Naga peace settlement will go beyond October 31— the deadline fixed by the Centre.

Sources in the NSCN-IM said both sides have agreed to more consultations with different stakeholders, including people. The talks were held amid the stalemate over the NSCN-IM’s demands for a separate “flag” and “constitution”.

The deadline of October 31, set by the Modi government to find a solution to the vexed and protracted Naga problem, will be extended following the recent talks, sources said, adding that the issue of a separate flag and Constitution was raised during the meeting but remained inconclusive as both sides “are holding on to their stand”.

The NSCN-IM leadership is of the view that since the Centre has recognised the uniqueness of Naga history and its political situation, Indians and Nagas will co-exist as two entities based on the principle of shared sovereignty.

The sources said there could be a possibility of the interlocutor holding the talks with other Naga insurgent groups like NSCN (Neopao Konyak/Kitovi), NSCN (Reformation) and NSCN (K-Khango) next week. — TNS