Dimapur, Nov 7 (MExN): MLA and former Finance Minister K Therie, is convinced that the NPF is “barking” for the wrong reasons ‘at all objectives’ in regard to the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of the Dan government. Stating that he was the Convener of the Drafting Committee, Therie reminded that there are three chapters in the CMP – political, welfare and economic. “To refresh the memories of my colleagues” who were associated with deliberating and approving the CMP, Therie stated that the commitment in the CMP “to secure a negotiated settlement of Indo-Naga political problem” (quoted) meant achieving a permanent solution by playing an effective mediatory role.
“The words ‘secure’ means to achieve a permanent solution by playing an effective and responsible mediatory role while keeping in mind the wishes of the people as the supreme command in formulating the proposals for a negotiated settlement” the MLA stated. He further apprised that the Naga political movement has traveled through ‘rough weather’, encountering bitter and painful experiences “which are difficult for humans to forgive and forget”. It is only the inner spiritual virtue of humans which can overcome the past difficulties, he stated. In regard to the commitment that the DAN Political Affairs Committee would be set up to work full-time to usher in peace and settlement, Therie stated that the Consultative Committee for Peace “which did its own limited work by consulting various Naga national workers groups” was set up. However it did not have the recognition or authority as desired, he added.
Therie also took note of the commitment in the CMP that transparency in decision-making, and “corruption-free governance and to do justice to the people” would be provided. This commitment has been betrayed and the Government has taken a backseat to the proceedings and has decided to become a mere facilitator rather than playing an effective and responsible role to secure a negotiated settlement, the MLA asserted.
The MLA also had a word for the ‘Bedrock of Naga Society’ booklet. He reminded the NPF that I Imkong, Leader of Opposition had issued a written speech on August 31, 2005 at the Integration Rally held at Kohima in which the Congress leader said “I hereby put on record that it (Bedrock of Naga Society) is a closed chapter”. Imkong has also repeated this in the legislative Assembly, in reply to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, in a debate, the MLA reminded, adding that the statement will be available in the Assembly proceedings.
“The rules of executive business say that if an honorable member issues a statement on the floor of the house, other honorable members are bound to agree with the statement. I have thus quoted the words of the honorable Leader of Opposition and have not defended the Bedrock of Naga Society in any way” Therie maintained. In regard to the law and order issue the MLA agreed with the NPF – “that all the people are not fools”. They understand what the responsibilities of the state government are and whether the situation is better than before as claimed, he said adding that “the people are feeling it” and they will deliver judgment at the proper time accordingly” .
