Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 26
The media officer for Temjen Imna Along Longkumer, Minister for Higher & Technical Education today clarified on his recent comments regarding non Naga representation in the Nagaland State Assembly, stating that the Minister’s speech “was conveyed in good faith to promote harmony and peaceful coexistence amongst the citizens of Dimapur” and has been “blown out of proportion.”
The media officer informed that Longkumer, speaking at the felicitation program of meritorious students and community toppers, organized by the Bhojpuri Samaj at Dimapur, had said "one day in this state, in the near future, you all may also become officers of repute , not only business men, but in the opportunity of reservation in Dimapur, you may also get the chance that you may get to come to the Assembly."
The media officer stated that the Minister also pointed out the "need for the Nagas and the non Nagas living in the state of Nagaland, to be more united in thoughts and actions as well, as the progress of the state so far was not only because of the Nagas alone, yet the immense contribution of the indigenous non Naga settlers had also played a vital role in the progress and development of the state,” adding that “it is a collective effort that has brought Nagaland to what it is today.”
The sole intention of the Minister, stated his media officer, was “to promote communal harmony and balance which is an essential part for peaceful coexistence amongst the various communities living in Dimapur and in the state.”