Abstract: This paper examines the tension between Naga political aspirations and the persistent challenges that continue to hinder the realization of sustainable peace in Nagaland. Shaped by historical experiences of colonial rule, evolving political consciousness, and longstanding demands for self-determination, Naga aspirations remain central to understanding both the ‘Indo-Naga’ conflict and the limitations of existing peace efforts. Although ceasefire agreements and successive rounds of negotiations have substantially reduced large-scale violence, fundamental issues relating to political recognition, competing territorial claims, and the future framework of autonomy and governance remain unresolved.
The study argues that the peace process is constrained not only by these unresolved political questions but also by factionalism among Naga political groups, inter-tribal divisions, governance deficits, and declining public trust in both state and non-state actors. As a result, the reduction of violence has not necessarily translated into a stable peace.
Drawing on peacebuilding scholarship, the paper conceptualizes sustainable peace as a transformative process that extends beyond the absence of armed conflict to encompass political inclusion, institutional legitimacy, social reconciliation, and participatory governance. It contends that durable peace requires the meaningful alignment of diverse Naga aspirations with accountable and context-sensitive mechanisms of conflict transformation. The paper concludes that overcoming the current impasse demands not only a political settlement but also deeper efforts to address historical grievances, strengthen institutions, and foster a more just, inclusive, and enduring peace.
Keywords: Naga political aspirations, ‘Indo-Naga’ conflict, Self-determination, Factionalism, Sustainable peace.
Title: The Unfinished Peace: Rethinking the Naga Political Movement and the Quest for Sustainable Peace
Author: Savio Kikhi, Dr. Shonreiphy Longvah
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 207-216
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 12-August-2026
