Joint Legislators’ Forum stands resolute on solving Naga political issue

Urges negotiating parties to rise above all differences and unite for the sake of the people

Dimapur, Aug. 7 (EMN): The Joint Legislators’ Forum (JLF) on Wednesday adopted several resolutions in connection with Naga political issue and reaffirmed its support for the ongoing peace process.

The resolutions were passed at a meeting held on August 7 in the Conference Hall of Nagaland Legislative Assembly along with Lok Sabha MP Tokheho Yepthomi and Rajya Sabha MP KG Kenye from the State, said to a statement signed by the MPs, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, leader of Opposition TR Zeliang, Deputy CM Y Patton and Speaker of NLA and chairman of JLF, Vikho-o Yhoshu who chaired the gathering.

The JLF resolved to continue playing the role of an active facilitator to the ongoing peace process and “meet all stakeholders including the leaders of the Government of India to create better understanding in order to cultivate a common voice aimed at bringing early solution.”

It appealed to all the sections of the society, especially the tribal Hohos and mass-based civil society organisations to “come forward under a spirit of unity and oneness so that all sections work collectively towards creating and maintaining a congenial atmosphere and a conducive environment for implementation of any new political arrangement that may come about from the ongoing negotiations.”

“As negotiations have been going on for the last 22 (twenty-two) years, the Joint Legislators’ Forum sincerely appeals to all the negotiating parties with the Government of India to come together, sit across the negotiating table and rise above all differences and to unite for the sake of our people. We make this fervent appeal so that the political dialogue is expedited for an early, honourable and acceptable solution,” read the statement.

The House also welcomed the appointment of RN Ravi as the governor of Nagaland and expressed hope that it will “strengthen and expedite the political negotiations,” paving the way for an early solution to the protracted Naga political issue.