Nagaland: Deputy CM Advocates Unity Among Naga Factions for Political Resolution

KOHIMA: Nagaland's Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton also stressed the vital need for all Naga factions to come in unison toward a lasting resolution of the Naga political problem.

Speaking during the 175th anniversary celebration of the Lhisemia Khel amalgamation at the NBCC Convention Centre in Kohima, Patton stressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been committed towards resolving the problem, but such cooperation between all factions will be needed.

Patton, who is also the president of the state BJP legislature party, said, "The government wants to give a united solution to all Nagas instead of struggling with the different factions. Whereas supporting the factions that sit and talk to the government honestly, the other factions, that could be working for personal interests or some of them for extortion, completely upset the whole movement.".

The Deputy Chief Minister appealed to all Naga political groups to unite and work towards a common goal. He recalled the early days of the Naga political movement under the leadership of A.Z. Phizo, when there was unity and respect. Patton bemoaned the current state of fragmentation, with around 28 factions causing governance challenges and fostering illegal activities like extortion, which hinder progress.

Patton told the Naga society that for a long and lasting sustainable development, there needs to be peace and unity between all tribes, clans, and regions.

The efforts of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio's opposition-less government unifies all 60 MLAs into a cohesive effort in promoting harmony and a possible resolution of this century-long problem.

Contemplating the historical nature of the affair, Patton commended the foresight of the Lhisemia Khel ancestors for combining three khels in 1850. The reason was to live as one and strive to overcome adversities together.

Patton pointed out that Kohima village, in its capacity as a traditional landlord, played an important role in the integration of Nagas with other inhabitants of the state's capital.

Notable figures addressed the gathering in the form of speeches, including Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu. Lhisemia Choir also participated with their performances to celebrate the never-ending legacy of Lhisemia Khel, as religious leaders led the prayer for the monolith.

Patton claimed to have plans to address the cabinet on January 6 over engagements with NSCN (I-M) as well as the seven NNPGs. He also added that the State Government was not involved in the tripartite talks regarding Frontier Nagaland Territory, but reiterated that the Central government would keep them abreast of such developments.

Through his speech, Patton reemphasized the necessity of unity and a common purpose for the betterment of the Naga people. He asked all parties to put aside their differences and strive for a peaceful, progressive future for Nagaland.

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