Dimapur, November 19 (MExN): The Chief Minister’s Office today retracted an earlier press statement issued on October 30 which stated that, “The popular Music Rock Events may be shifted to Agri-Expo, Dimapur considering the flagrant traffic problems and security related matters in the State Capital during such events.”
“The statement stands retracted and any inconvenience caused to any party/ies is deeply regretted,” a press release from the CMO Media Cell stated, further expressing regret for “any inconveniences caused to any Organisation/Individuals by the content of the Press statement.” The CMO maintained that it was “unintentionally caused due to typo error which is deeply regretted,” adding that, “It was never intended to tag the State capital as unsafe or to demean or ignore the sacrifices of any Organisation/Individual.”
The typo was made, according the CMO release, in an attempt to “enlighten the general public about the measure taken up by the State Government and its plan to shift the Rock Contest events to Dimapur.”
It further noted that while the traffic condition is “always a challenge for such big events in the State Capital, it is well managed by the Police with active support and cooperation of the citizens of Kohima.“
The State Government is grateful to all citizens, youth bodies, NGOs particularly APO, AMK, ASU, AYO, KVC and KVYO for helping organize the Hornbill Festival since the last 17 years,” it added. Meanwhile, the CMO further maintained that the idea to shifting the Music Rock Events was primarily on “account of the desire and wishes of other districts to be a part of the Hornbill Festival,” and not any other reason.
“As such, the Government is planning to organize the event in Dimapur this year and likewise, it may go to other Districts on rotation basis from next year,” it added.
It also informed that other events of Hornbill Festival 2017 will be held in Kohima and concern agencies are taking all possible steps to make it a grand success. The State Government also requested all concern to “extend their help and cooperation for ensuring that everyone gets an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland during the upcoming Hornbill Festival.”