Dimapur, July 10 (MExN): In another boost to the ongoing Naga political peace talks, the Opposition Congress today underscored the need for all 60 legislators of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly to try to collectively assist in the ongoing negotiations by going to their respective home constituencies to seek the mandate of the voters and to convey to the Government of India the wishes of the Naga people. “We cannot leave this problem solely to the factions”, CLP Leader Chingwang Konyak said while opening the second day’s discussion on the budget and suggested that Speaker Kiyanilie Peseyie convene a meeting of all legislators to discuss the issue further so that they can also say something to the Government of India and the factions. Referring to the last consultative meeting of the legislators, he said the meeting could not make any major headway and suggested that the legislators sit once more. “Let’s come out boldly”, he urged.
Also, referring to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s statement in his budget speech appealing for hastening of the peace process, he insisted that simply appealing for hastening of the process is of no use and that the legislators should also take a stand and say something to the Government of India and the underground groups. He also said the NSCN (K)’s announcement that it was willing to enter into a dialogue with the Government of India if invited, has come as a welcome sign.
Meanwhile, he has termed the budget presented by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who also holds the Finance portfolio, as devoid of new policies and initiatives to mobilize revenue. He also ridiculed the budget saying it provides no employment opportunity and predicted that the retirement bill passed today would result in huge deficit. He also claimed that Nagaland has taken over Manipur as the most corrupt state in the country.
