Neiphiu Rio says govt ‘betrayed’ the people

DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 1 (MExN): Nagaland State MP to the Lok Sabha, Neiphiu Rio, while expressing pain at the violence in the state, today said that the “reluctance of the State to listen to the voice of the masses has resulted in total breakdown of a peaceful atmosphere culminating in the loss of two precious lives and injury to many.” Rio, in a press statement, lamented that the state government “confronted every section of society” despite the appeals of the apex tribe bodies and civil society organisations.  

“I had also clearly stated in my statement dated 19th November 2016 that the issue of conduct of ULB elections needs to be implemented only after dialogue with all stakeholders and the tribal hohos. Sufficient warning was issued by the hohos and mass based organizations, yet the State Government continued to pursue conduct of the ULB elections,” he reminded.  

The Nagaland MP said that blunders committed in the lead up to the violence, “could have been avoided if only the State had taken the people into confidence.” “It goes without saying that in a democratic society, the elected government must listen to the masses whose mandate is the very reason why the government exists,” he said.  

The intervention and concern of the Church, he added is “appreciated and most welcome.” The MP, however, lamented that the government “went back on its word and betrayed the confidence of the people, especially the Church.”  

He appealed to all sections for restraint and once again urged the State to listen to the voice of the people in the greater interest of the Nagas. Rio asserted that, “the only way forward to overcome this serious crisis is understanding, dialogue along with genuine concern for the welfare and future of the Nagas.”  

Rio also expressed his condolences to the bereaved families, while stating that the two who were killed in police firing “have made the supreme sacrifice by giving their lives while responding to the call of the Naga people.” “Their sacrifice will be recorded in the annals of our history for all times to come. I also wish speedy recovery to the injured persons and once again appeal for calm, restrain and understanding,” he added.