‘Only Naga solution can end gun culture’

EMN Dimapur, February 3 Chief Minister TR Zeliang said that solution to the protracted Indo-Naga political problem is the “way to peace and peace is the only way to progress and prosperity of the State”. Addressing the inaugural function of the Aboi Town Council at Aboi today, the chief minister asserted that as long as the gun culture prevails in the State, Nagas will never progress and the only means to put an end to gun culture is to find early solution to Naga political problem. The Chief Minister said that when the Government of India under the Prime Ministership of Narendra Modi is committed to early settlement of the Naga political issue, Nagas should grasp the opportunity and collectively work towards it without further creating any imbroglio among the Nagas. T R Zeliang also said, solution to the Naga political issue is not for a particular faction or tribe but for the benefit of the whole Nagas. “The sooner we solve this problem the sooner we will have permanent peace. But if we prolong I am apprehensive that more arm groups will come up and it will create more trouble”, the chief minister stated. The Chief Minister also said that when all the sixty legislators of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, cutting across the party line, have collectively come together to foster the early settlement of the Indo-Naga political issue, people should also render fullest support. He also disclosed the gathering that not only the 60 legislators but all the tribal hohos, civil societies and NGOs have decided to work collectively for finding early solution. “Solution is possible only when we work together and this consensus decision at the highest level must percolate down to the grass root level.” “Gun has not given us any solution for the past six decades therefore, the only way to find permanent solution is through dialogue. The State government is ready to play any role to facilitate bringing ceasefire between India and NSCN-K again so that dialogue can continue”, the Chief Minister said and added that when the Indian Prime Minister is ready to solve through dialogue, Nagas must also be keenly reciprocate. The Chief Minister also said that government and public should work together for development. He admitted that the State is going through fiscal crunch due to change of funding pattern at the Centre with the formation of NITI Ayog, however, expressed confidence that within 2-3 months time, the State financial position will improve. T R Zeliang also informed that he will soon convene a meeting with the women group to settle the 33% issue. He said, election of municipal and town council could not be held due to case pending in the Supreme Court and the State could not avail lots of fund because of this case. The Chief Minister added that there are still many towns which should be accorded municipal or town council status. Since all the legislators have joined the government, people have high expectation on the government to perform better, Chief Minister said and called upon the legislators to work hard for the upliftment of the people. According to CMO, others who spoke included Dr. Shurhozielie, NPF President, Tohanba, Parliamentary Secretary as guest of honour, Eshak Konyak, Nyeiwang Konyak, Ex-Minister and Shakwang Angh.