Kohima, July 28 (MExN): Describing the March ‘Naga Consultative Meet’ with overseas’ Nagas as one of the most significant developments in the recent past, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has welcomed and endorsed the institution of the Naga Common Platform, ‘independent and inclusive of all Nagas to facilitate the pursuance of the proposals and recommendations made during the meet.’
Also, he referred to the consultative meet’s resolution that the Naga people recognize the sufferings of the “eastern” Nagas in Myanmar and to work for their recognition with a definite territory for all-round development. The chief minister said he has already taken up the plight of the “eastern” Nagas with the Ambassador of Myanmar, with the consent of the prime minister and Home minister of India. He opined that the Naga problem goes beyond the boundaries of Nagaland and beyond international boundaries. A concrete political settlement must address all dynamics and not be restricted by man-made hurdles and boundaries, he said.
The chief minister insisted that both the Indian prime minister and Home minister are sincere in their efforts to resolve the Naga issue and that the state government will continue to support the ongoing peace process by playing the role of active facilitator. He has sought the support and cooperation of the Nagaland Congress on this issue and expressed hope that the opposition would live up to its assurance made on the floor of the Assembly. “All sections have to realize that the Naga political issue is above party affiliations and we have to bury our differences in the interest of our people,” Rio said.
