Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Saturday reiterated that the Naga political issue would remain the top agenda of the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN III) Government.
In his presentation of statement of Vote-on-Account on the floor of the House, Mr Rio quoted the DAN’s commitment on the Naga political issue mentioned in their manifesto in 2003, 2008, and again in 2013.
He said the Naga political problem remained unresolved even after several decades of struggle, suffering and pain.
” In 2003 and 2008, when the DAN went to the people, we gave a sacred and sincere commitment to every citizen of the State, ” he said.
‘‘The DAN has promised to play the role of facilitator to the peace process and also committed that the DAN would step down and pave way for any alternative arrangement that may come about through a negotiated settlement, which is honourable and acceptable to the people. Till today, that commitment still stands. ” he added.
Mr Rio said the Naga People’s Front (NPF) commited that if reelected to the Government, the NPF will pave way in the event of the realisation of a negotiated political settlement that is honourable and acceptable to the people.
This commitment will be fulfilled on any day, be it one day, one week, one month or one year after formation of a new Government.
He affirmed that the Government would leave no stone unturned in their Endeavour to bring lasting peace, which he said was the desire and cry of the people.
He felt that the occasion was right for all sections of the society to move ahead, by leaving aside bitterness of the past and to come closer in the greater interest of our society, particularly the youth.
Maintaining that the unresolved Naga political issue had been a hindrance in the way of achieving peace and progress in the State, the Leader of the House appealed to all sections of the society, particularly the Naga Nationalist groups, to uphold the spirit of reconciliation and oneness, so that collectively the Naga political Issue could be resolved and that the Naga society could move forward towards achieving peace and progress in the State of Nagaland.
On the demand of Naga integration as a single Naga family, Mr Rio said the Government would continue to support the Naga people’s demand for integration, and work and pursuit of the Naga people’s dreams.
He further stated that Dan government wouldsafeguarding the unique history, protecting the identity and promoting the culture and heritage of the Nagas. (UNI)