Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio said that the cease fire with major underground groups which was still holding despite may difficulties even as ongoing negotiations for lasting solution to the Nagas political inspired hope for “a lasting and satisfactory solution to the Naga political issue.”
Addressing the 65th Independence Day celebration at the Secretariat Plaza here today,Rio who spoke for thirty six minutes, also appealed to both the government of India and the underground groups to fully commit themselves to achieve the long cherished goal of the Nagas.
Significantly, the chief minister urged people to redouble efforts for peace and prosperity in fighting “injustice, harassment and intimidation,that many law breakers are trying to force upon us.”
He called for laying a solid foundation for a progressive society that rose above tribalism and petty parochialism, a society that prides in “our Naga unity and oneness” that discouraged division along tribal lines which was owed to the future generation.
Rio condemned recent violence in Dimapur and Peren districts that resulted in loss of lives and injuries to several and appealed to all citizens to settle their difference through peaceful means.
He asserted that the government would not allow any group to take the law into their own hands. Rio also warned that the government would deal firmly with all kinds of extortion “in whichever hue or colour”. He said law enforcement agencies have been instructed to nab extortionists and put them behind bars.
The chief minister also revealed that government departments and business establishments have been advised to resist any demands but to inform police in confidence. He also mentioned about dismantling of check gates as decided by the government, to prevent illegal collections.
He said the cabinet decision to recommend to the government of India creation of an autonomous council comprising of Mon, Tuensang, Longleng and Kiphire districts was taken up only after deliberation at all levels and in recognition of the “sentiments of the people of these areas.”
On the issue of integration of Naga contiguous areas(as contained in clause 13 of the 16 Point Agreement), Rio said in view of four resolutions having been passed by the Nagaland legislative assembly, the state has requested the government of India to decide in order to clear confusion in the light of “multiple problems”.
In order to strengthen traditional customary courts for an effective system of administration of justice the chief minister said the government has taken up construction of customary courts in 56 administrative outposts whereby by 2011-12, tribal courts would be established in all districts.
The Chief Minister also released various booklets on Nagaland and three districts- Kohima, Phek and Mon) Human Development Report, published by state planning and coordination department, supported by Planning Commission, GOI and UNDP. A total of 25 parade contingents took part the march past parade.
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