Isak Swu, chief of Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (I-M), dies after year-long illness
The head of the militant group, which has been seeking independence, had signed an agreement with the Centre, but the fate of the document is uncertain now.
Isak Chishi Swu, the chairman of the Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak Muivah) died in New Delhi on Tuesday after almost a year of prolonged treatment at the Fortis Hospital, reported The Statesman. He was admitted to hospital on July 5. He was 87 years old.
The NSCN was formed in 1980 by Swu, Thuingaleng Muivah and Kaphlang, with the aim to establish a sovereign state, "Nagalim". The group is considered a militant organisation by the Indian government. In 1988, it split into two organsiations, the NSCN (I-M) led by Isak Swu and Muivah, and the other, NSCN-K led by Kaphlang.
On August 3, 2015, Swu had signed an agreement with the central government from his hospital bed, however, the fate of the accord is uncertain after the death of the leader. The details of the agreement have not been disclosed by either of the parties, according to The Telegraph. Following reports suggesting the Centre will grant a separate flag and passport to the people of Nagaland, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said, "The government recognises the unique Naga history and is committed to it. Talks with NSCN [I-M] is going on. News of granting separate passport and flag are not true."