Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio Urges Prompt Settlement of the Naga Political Issue

Claiming to play the role of an “active facilitator” between the centre and the negotiating parties, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphu Rio called for an early settlement of the political issues of the state. The Nagaland CM assures people of early and effective results.

The Naga CM expressed his thoughts on the occasion of the Independence day celebration while he was entrusted with the flag hosting responsibility at the Secretariat Plaza in Kohima. Rio also mentioned that at present, the Naga political issue is at the top of the ruling PDA coalition's agenda.

The Chief Minister said, “We are committed to play the role of an active facilitator in the ongoing negotiations between the central government and the Naga political groups. The solution to the political imbroglio should be honourable, inclusive and acceptable to the Nagas.”

The measures taken by the Nagaland government over the past years have also been counted by Rio. The setting up of a political affairs committee for conducting consultative meets with the tribal Hohos and civil society organisations has also been mentioned by him.

He further urges the government at the centre and the negotiating people to pay heed to the request of the common people and try to reach an earliest possible solution. In this context, he added, “Political negotiations have been going on for the past 21 years. We have had many challenges, but there is no problem that is insurmountable before the collective will of the people."

CM Rio also mentioned the death of 10 people who died in the recent rain-related disaster. The natural calamities like unprecedented rains, landslides etc often ravage the hilly state and the CM stressed on the need for infrastructure developments in the state.

Appreciating the relief distribution and aides granted by the central government, Rio said, “We express our sincere gratitude to the Government of India for heeding to the distress call of the people of Nagaland and deputing two Indian Air Force helicopters to transport essential commodities to areas that have been cut-off by the calamity.”