Burning of central leaders’ effigies ‘most regrettable’, says BJP Nagaland unit

DIMAPUR — The BJP Nagaland has termed the burning of effigies of its central leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and national BJP president JP Nadda during a rally held in Tuensang on March 13 as “most regrettable”.

“Such actions are unfortunate, unnecessary and serve no productive purpose, particularly at a time when sincere efforts are being made by the Central leaders to address the concerns of eastern Nagaland,” read the press release from BJP Nagaland state.

The Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) had organised protests in all district headquarters of eastern Nagaland to express its resentment over the Centre’s delay in finalising its offer for creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT).

The state BJP maintained that the Government of India, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remains deeply committed to the development and welfare of eastern Nagaland.

It pointed out that various initiatives and schemes such as PM Matru Vandana Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, PM Ujjwala Yojana, PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, free COVID-19 vaccination, PM Ayushman Bharat Health card, PM Kisan Yojana, PM Mudra Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, Khelo India, PM Vishwakarma etc., and the establishment of the medical college at Mon, to develop the socio-economic and infrastructure aspects of eastern Nagaland, exemplify this commitment.

Further, INR 180 crore has been allocated for eastern Nagaland alone under PM-DevINE, demonstrating the earnest efforts of the Centre to uplift the region and its people, it stated.

“While the BJP party is aware of the government of India’s acknowledgement of the grievances and demands put forth by ENPO regarding the Frontier Nagaland Territory, it urges all stakeholders to prioritise constructive means of resolution within the framework of democratic dialogue,” it said.

It also urged the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) to be patient and be understanding even as both parties “navigate through any procedural complexities that may arise while trying to achieve a positive end-result”.

“While protests are a fundamental right in a democratic society, they should not detract from constructive dialogues that are necessary for resolution. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, respecting procedural and technical considerations, to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome,” it added.

The BJP Nagaland state unit further said it was optimistic that the Government of India remains unwavering in its dedication to address the issue of eastern Nagaland and achieve positive outcomes that are mutually agreeable and pragmatic.

“Let us all work together by bringing our minds and hearts closer towards fostering an environment of mutual respect, understanding and cooperation,” it added.