Need to resolve Naga political issue says Nagaland governor La Ganesan
Nagaland governor La Ganesan on Tuesday called for an early resolution of the decades-old Naga political issue, underlining that the society at large has not been able to grow and realise its potential due to the unique challenges and constraints created due to the unresolved issue.My government as it commences its new term in the service of the people, with a clear vision to bring about positive change, progressive development and all-around inclusive economic growth, is also mindful of the long-standing unresolved Naga political issue, which has impacted every sphere of the society, and created hurdles, especially to the economy and the progress of the state, the governor said in his first address to the newly constituted assembly. The governors address is prepared by the state government.Maintaining that the unresolved issue had impacted development and prosperity in some way or the other, the governor said that the government will be proactive and continue playing the role of a sincere and active facilitator to strengthen the ongoing peace process.We remain committed to not coming in the way of an agreement that is arrived at through the peace process, that is honourable, acceptable, and inclusive, he said.Ganesan also added that the re-election of the chief minister Neiphiu Rio-led Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alliance government in the recent election reflects the publics faith in the government.Ganesan also referred to the demand for a separate state by the tribal bodies of six districts under the aegis of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organization (ENPO), asserting that consultations were on for a sustainable resolution of the matter. He added that the state government was committed to assisting the process so that the grievances of the people of eastern Nagaland are addressed by bridging development deficits at the earliest. On the conduct of the long pending elections to the states urban local bodies, the governor said the polls and constitution of the local bodies as per the provisions of the Constitution and in compliance with the directives of the Supreme Court are critical for the equitable development, growth and progress of our cities and towns.I call upon everyone concerned to come forward and assist in the successful conduct of the elections in the interest of the people and the state, Ganesan said. He added that the state government remains committed to ensuring the maintenance of law and order and a peaceful atmosphere.Various civil society organisations in Nagaland are opposed to the civic elections under the existing 2001 municipal law unless the government amends the provision of taxation on land and building. They claim that the taxation on land is an infringement of the Article 371A of the Constitution which grants special privileges to the state of Nagaland and protects the unique traditional land-holding system of the Nagas.
Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at 9:23 am