Says the masses are the party’s high command
Morung Express News
Dimapur | April 27
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio called for a social media savvy party workforce delivering the keynote address at the inaugural session of a ‘Media seminar-cum-workshop’ organised for the NDPP (Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party) workers in Dimapur on April 27.
The seminar was organised at the Niathu Resort where Consulting Editor of CNN News 18 and co-founder of ATVI Infotainment Karma S. Paljor was the resource person.
“Today, the internet and the information highway have become the real platforms of democracy. It provides each individual, irrespective of background and location, the power of speech and opinion,” said Rio.
While holding the traditional media in equal regard, he said that social media cannot only disseminate information and propaganda but also create awareness and influence opinion. He said that the NDPP have to adapt to the reality of the present times and as a political party use the tools in a positive manner to carry out its agenda.
While admitting he has still to get used to it, he expressed confidence that “we’ll be more empowered, more knowledgeable and more equipped in the days to come.”
Reminding how Prime Minister Narendra Modi has connected with the masses, Rio referred to how governments the world over are using “the internet to improve delivery, bring administration closer to the people, combat corruption and get feedback from citizens.” A world without social media is unimaginable today, he added.
He also reminded of the dangers involved. The biggest challenge, according to him, is the uncontrolled and unregulated spread of fake news and information. “I am definitely not an expert on the subject, but in my experiences of public life, I have understood the importance of media and the danger of its negative impact too.”
Terming as essential the responsible use of social media, he expressed confidence that the resource person would give equal importance to this challenge.
NDPP spokesperson, Merentoshi R. Jamir cautioned against basking in the glory of the party’s election victory. “The honeymoon period is over. We have a huge responsibility to deliver what was promised during the election campaign,” he said. Stating all the members must carry forward the NDPP ideology and principles, he said that the bigger task ahead is to work towards realising the development policies down to the grassroots.
Rio commenting on the NDPP ideology, said that the party regards “the masses are the real and genuine stakeholders of the party.” “We do not have a high command, but rather, the people and the grassroots are the real high command. We believe in democracy, freedom of speech and respect for human rights. Our constitution promises that we will work for justice, truth and fairness.”
As for the future of the fledgling NDPP, which will turn one in May, he wished that its presence goes beyond Nagaland, “our boundaries and comfort zones.” Given the circumstances, he held that the party did quite well in the March elections winning 18 seats, which translates into 25 percent of the overall vote. It crosses 40 percent when the votes polled by the losing candidates are included, he added.
The seminar was divided into two sessions with NDPP secretary general Abu Metha helming the first – Principles and ideologies of NDPP – as the resource person. Karma S. Paljor’s session titled ‘Importance of media/social media in the political arena’ was out of bounds for the media.
