PDA candidate Dr. Murry pledges commitment to people’s concerns

DIMAPUR — The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) issued its party ticket to Dr. Chumben Murry for the upcoming Lok Sabha general election at the NDPP headquarters in Chümoukedima on Wednesday.

Dr. Murry, who is the consensus candidate of the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government, expressed gratitude for the support received.

“This is an enormous responsibility placed on me and I assure to do my outmost best,” he said, pledging to prioritise the concerns of the people, not only on Naga political issues but also as a voice representing their broader interests.

Speaking during the ticket ceremony, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed confidence in their position for the upcoming Lok Sabha general election, stating that they have strong support from the people.

However, he emphasised the importance of humility and hard work among party workers, advising them not to boast but to connect with the people.

“Our position is very good,” he said, adding that Dr. Murry was chosen as the consensus candidate after several rounds of consultations. With the support of all 60 MLAs, the election will be smooth and victorious, he maintained.

Acknowledging the NDPP-BJP alliance, Rio noted that the BJP, despite its potential to secure an absolute majority in the Centre independently, respects the sentiments of the minority parties, and takes them into confidence and forges alliances.

60 MLAs to meet on March 22

The chief minister announced that all 60 MLAs of the state will meet on March 22, to facilitate discussions among political parties within the government, with a focus on coordination strategies for the upcoming campaign at various levels — state, district, and constituency. He stressed the importance of giving special attention to each constituency to ensure satisfactory results.

Patton asks BJP workers to support PDA candidate

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton urged the BJP workers and supporters to fully endorse the PDA alliance candidate, maintaining that the party will remain committed to the ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ made in 2018.

He warned that any BJP workers going against the alliance candidate would face disciplinary action.

Patton highlighted the successful partnership between the BJP and NDPP, attributing it to unity and collaboration that brought stability and progress to Nagaland. The synergy between the two parties has resulted in numerous initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of people from infrastructure development to the empowerment of youth and women, he added.

Describing Dr. Murry as a ‘visionary leader’ who embodies the values of service, dedication and commitment to the welfare of Nagaland, he said that the former legislator is an ideal representative who will ensure that the state’s interest are safeguarded and promoted in the Parliament.