Limalenden Longkumer
Mokokchung | February 15
Lambasting the NPF for what he said was “not keeping their word to solve the Naga political problem within three months’ time,” CLP leader I.Imkong today claimed that the NPF has forfeited the right to talk about the Naga issue because the party has failed to solve it, and that that right now rests with the Congress. He said that the Congress will find an “honorable, permanent and lasting solution acceptable to all sections of the people.” He made these remarks at Molungyimsen village while on his tour to 21 Tuli A/C campaigning for Congress candidate, S.Imti Jamir.
While addressing Congress followers at Tzudikong town earlier in the morning, Imkong criticized the NPF-led DAN government for not being able to explain what they meant by the words “right direction,” making reference to the perceived deadlock in the on-going GoI-NSCN(IM) peace talks. He also recollected the former Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio suggesting an ‘interim agreement’ and said that the former was unable to answer when questioned what an ‘interim agreement’ could mean.
Elaborating on the party’s election manifesto, the Congressman said that clause thirteen of the 16-Point Agreement provides for the integration of Naga contiguous areas and said that the party will work for its implementation and that the Congress, if elected to power, will “review the inter-state boundary.”
He also added that while the Government of India approves for a settlement to the Naga issue within the framework of the Indian Constitution, the “Naga national workers, whichever faction it may be, are seeking a solution outside the purview of the Indian constitution” and said that there has to be a meeting point somewhere in order to bring forth a solution, for which the Congress will work. Imkong also said that the Congress has various development plans and special packages for the rural masses, the youth, self-employment and the women. He also said that rehabilitation program for Tuli Paper Mill was possible with the Congress led UPA Government’s contribution and promised that the plight of the Nagaland Pulp and Paper Corporation workers will be addressed. He also disclosed that the Congress government will lay emphasis on road connectivity, internet connectivity and communication.
Interestingly, while Imkong was addressing his supporters at Tzudikong, supporters of T.Tali, an independent candidate and former Congress MLA who later defected to the NPF, rallied past the area in a convoy of three vehicles and making slogans. Imkong took the pleasure to stand still until the convoy passed and then advised the police authorities that such acts were against the ‘Code of Conduct’ laid down by the Election Commission and punishable by law.
 MEETING RESOLUTION.JPG)
