In an apparent reference to allegations that religious persecutions were taking place under BJP, Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio said religious persecution in the world has been taking place since time immemorial therefore, “a few isolated incidents” should not be misconstrued as a party advocating anti-religion, nor should it form the basis of another party’s election propaganda.
He said this while addressing an election rally for the PDA consensus candidate Dr Chumben Murry at Zunheboto town, Multipurpose hall, Monday. Rio asserted that a political party should instead focus on the development and progress of the country.
He highlighted that exponential growth of the Indian economy on the global stage validates the Modi-led BJP as the right party to lead the country.
The chief minister expressed confidence that the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA), with God’s grace and public support will achieve victory in the Lok Sabha election 2024.
Rio said that Dr. Chumben, with the support of all the 60 legislators, was the right person to be the voice of the Nagas in the Parliament.
In a short speech minister for Roads & Bridges and convenor PDA election committee Zunheboto district, G. Kaito Aye reminded all that the 60 MLAs were Christians and were committed to stand for the Nagas. He dismissed the notion of anti-religious sentiments, attributing it to social media rumours, assumptions and political propoganda spread by the opposition.
NPF legislator Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu recalled his previous visit to Zünheboto and noted that significant development that had taken place in the district under the leadership of chief minister. He emphasized that such developmental initiatives should be acknowledged and reciprocated by the people and cited the ongoing MP election as an opportunity to demonstrate support through a resounding victory for the PDA consensus candidate.
NDPP president Chingwang Konyak said no party should establish itself solely on the basis of religion, in response to false propaganda regarding religion in politics. He went on to affirm that the PDA remained stable and robust under the leadership of chief minister Neiphiu Rio.
Deputy CM Y. Patton asserted that the BJP was often accused of being anti-Christian during elections, but in reality, it was just a political party. He pointed out that since 2003, when Rio had formed an alliance with the BJP, there had been no instances of atrocities against Christians during his leadership.
Patton emphasized that the unanimous support to Dr Chumben by all 60 MLAs showed unity for the cause of the Naga solution and urged the 24 Naga factions to do the same.
PDA consensus candidate Dr. Chumben Murry said he was standing as a friend and a brother of the Sumis. He likened politics to working in a field for five years, where the harvest consists of “peace,” “development,” and “progress of society.”
Dr. Chumben said peace did not come automatically but required efforts.
He cited the efforts of the chief minister since 2003 which bore fruits as evident in addressing Naga political issues and by bringing together different factions to share their perspectives. He also said that the unity of 60 MLAs was not just about strength but about facilitating the resolution of the long-standing Naga political issue.
Dr.Chumben therefore urged upon everyone to vote for him, to envision further development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who he said, has categorically mentioned that India cannot develop unless NE is developed.
Earlier, in his welcome address, advisor F&Cs & LMCP K T Sukhalu, highlighted several developmental works undertaken in Zunheboto town under the leadership of chief minister Rio. He emphasized that Nagaland was not self-sufficient and relies on the Centre. Sukhalu urged the people to have faith in the seven legislators under Zunheboto district and to support the PDA consensus candidate for further all-round development of the district.
The program was chaired by NDPP president Zunheboto Region Khehoshe Yeptho and invocation by SBCZ associate pastor Ghunato Assumi. Advisor for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Kazheto Kinimi, delivered the vote of thanks while ZTSBC youth pastor Aketo K. Yeptho pronounced the benediction.