DIMAPUR, JUNE 26 (MExN): The Naga Peoples Front has once again urged the Government of India to expedite the ongoing political negotiations so that a final settlement is reached at the earliest. In this regard, the party has called upon the GoI to “make the offer of political settlement to the Naga people without any further delay”.
Stating that the Indo-Naga political issue remains at the top of the NPF's agenda, the party reiterated its commitment to the people that the DAN Government would step down anytime from office in the event of realization of a negotiated political settlement that is honorable and acceptable to the people. These were among the resolutions passed at the Central Executive Council of the Naga People's Front in its meeting held on 26th June, 2013.
The NPF also reiterated its commitment to support the aspiration of the Naga people for integration of all contiguous Naga inhabited areas, pointing out that it was the desire of the Nagas to live together under one administrative umbrella as members of the same family. Also if physical integration is not immediately possible at present, the NPF urged upon the Government of India “to extend the protection, privileges and facilities that are given to the State of Nagaland, to all Naga inhabited areas within the Indian union”.
The CEC approved the decision of the House to commemorate the forthcoming 50thanniversary of the NPF in the latter part of 2013, for which a planning and organizing committee will be set up by the NPF President. The resolutions were issued and signed by KG Kenye, Secretary General NPF and Abu Metha, Convenor, Resolution Committee.
Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio today said thato said the state has been pleading with the Government of India to “find a way of sustenance for the underground groups. If not, they have to tax the common man. He said that in the eyes of the Government “all these taxes are illegal.” He added that “the Government of India insists on control which we are doing. But when one is hungry, all illegal activities follow but are punished as per law. But when sustenance comes, this may continue and we have no resources.”
Regarding foothill road, he said the state government advocated that it be four-laning and be taken up fully funded by Government of India. Tribal Hohos are also for the road and their concerns are appreciated, he said, he however stating that land owners should support the government also.
He stated that winning the Naga People’s Front (NPF) in the last general elections for the third consecutive term is a record in (Nagaland Legislative) history. He cautioned against groupism which would adversely affect unity of the people. The Chief Minister conveyed appreciation to the people of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam who have joined hands with the NPF. With four Party MLAs in Manipur, the Party also took some action in some local elections in Assam and Panchayat elections in Arunachal Pradesh.
On state plan allocation, Rio regretted that it was reduced by 7%. In this, he informed he had written to the Prime Minister and Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission of India and will push for New Delhi by the first week of July for this.
In his presidential address, Dr Shurhozelie said that the NPF victory in elections is “unique achievement” in the whole of India. He reiterated that NPF is the oldest regional Party in N-E India. The NPF President also released the Seventh Amendment of the NPF Constitution since the Party has extended its activities to Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. Earlier, welcome address was rendered by NPF Working President Apok Pongener
