The implementation process has hit a few snags. First of all, one of the vital imperatives of the treaty viz. resolution of land disputes hangs fire. Though a land commission was formed, later than expected, it is yet to show any tangible result. It's learnt that the issue is lying with Attorney General's office for legal opinion. Important matters like these better not get put through any bureaucratic rigmarole. For, settlement of land disputes is pivotal to peace in the region.

The controversy over the voters' list needs to be addressed in earnest. It is of fundamental importance to the holding of district council elections in order to ensure proper representation of both the communities -- tribal and non-tribal in the region. It would bring accountability and efficiency in the local bodies which are currently lacked. The district council elections are vital from another standpoint. They will be the electoral college for the formation of the regional council at the top. Elected bodies can only be instrumental in bringing about stability and progress in the region. Discovery of caches of arms from the secret dens of criminals in the hills portending ill for the region, the role of elected local bodies assumes a critical importance.

There is one positive thing: the BNP government is not unwilling to take the peace accord forward. But their intent to implement it still seems confined to rhetoric. We understand that the complex issues can't be resolved overnight, but they must be given utmost priority. There has to be a consensus cutting across all the communities that dillydallying with the accord's implementation will only foster instability and uncertainty in the region.