Question : TALKS WITH MILITANT ORGANISATIONS

(a) the militant organisations with whom Government is engaged in dialogue after signing of cease55fire agreement;

(b) the demands placed by NSCN, UPDS, DHD before the Government, organisation-wise;

(c) whether the Government are contemplating to create an Autonomous State as per Article 244(A) for the Hill Districts of Assam as a solution to the demand raised in this region;

(d) if so, the reaction of the Government in respect to the demand of an Autonomous State for Karbi Anglong and North Cachar Hills of Assam; and

(e) the steps taken so far in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI I.D.SWAMI)

(a) to (e): A Statement is Annexed.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN PARTS (a) TO (e) OF THE LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 1960 FOR 4.3.2003 RAISED BY DR. JAYANTA RONGPI REGARDING TALKS WITH MILITANT ORGANISATIONS

(a) & (b): Although the Government has entered into ceasefire with National Socialist Council of Nagaland (I/M) faction (NSCN-IM), National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang faction), Dima Halam Daogah (DHD), and United Peoples` Democratic Solidarity (UPDS), dialogue is being held with NSCN(IM) only. During the peace talks held in the month of January 2003 between the representatives of the Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (IM), the NSCN (IM) raised among other issues, their demands relating to the distinct identity of the Nagas and their stand on unification of Naga areas. There was an agreement to continue the formal talks until a lasting settlement is reached. Both sides re-affirmed the need for a peaceful, violence-free environment.

(c): At present, there is no proposal for creation of Autonomous State within State of Assam under the Article 244(A) of the Constitution of India.

(d): Does not arise:

(e): Does not arise: