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Naga political issue remains central, says Chief Minister Rio
KOHIMA — The Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) marked its 60th anniversary on Tuesday with a special commemorative event held at the Assembly Secretariat Complex in Kohima.
Governor La. Ganesan, attending the event as the guest of honour, commended the NLA for its enduring commitment to democratic values and its role as a “pillar of governance.” He acknowledged the contributions of past and present members who have served as the voice of the people, championing their aspirations and addressing their concerns.
“We celebrate the commitment, resilience, and endeavour of the elected representatives who have served in this esteemed institution. Each member has played a crucial role in advocating for the aspirations and challenges of their constituencies and contributing to the rich mosaic of Nagaland’s political landscape,” Ganesan said.
He said that the NLA has not just been a governing body but also the voice of the people, a guardian of democratic values, and a symbol of unity in the diverse state that has seen the rise of many visionary leaders dedicated to serving the people and the country.
Looking ahead, the governor urged the Assembly to acknowledge the critical role of innovation in shaping governance and making it more transparent, accessible, and responsive to citizens’ needs. He encouraged members to carry these values forward, working towards a brighter future for Nagaland and India – one that balances progress with respect for heritage and traditions.
NLA committed to peace, justice, and progress
In his address, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasised the government’s commitment to peace, justice, and progress for the people of Nagaland.
Stating that the jubilee provides an opportunity to reflect on the NLA’s journey and to acknowledge the guiding hand of the Almighty, he urged members to use the anniversary as inspiration, to introspect deeply and chart a vision for an even brighter future for Nagaland.
The journey of Nagaland officially began on December 1, 1963, amidst a complex and challenging political backdrop, Rio said, as he paid tribute to the visionary leaders and architects of the state who paved the way for the present generation.
“We hold close to our hearts the memories of the significant events and people who shaped our path to statehood. Their contributions remind us of the strength and resilience that are the cornerstones of our state’s identity”, he said.
To honour the legacy of these pioneers, the chief minister announced the renaming of several facilities within the Assembly Secretariat Complex. The Library will now bear the name of the first Chief Minister, P Shilu Ao, while Conference Hall, Committee Room, and Training Room will be dedicated to the memory of former Speakers K Shikhu Sema, C Chongshen Chang, and Vikho-o Yhoshü, respectively.
Rio said that the formation of Nagaland state and the establishment of the NLA are intricately linked with the Naga political issue which remains central to its purpose and identity. Since attaining statehood, every Assembly has recognised the importance of this issue, addressing it in nearly every session and passing a total of 17 resolutions calling for peaceful and inclusive negotiations.
“This Assembly’s commitment to the Naga cause underscores our collective responsibility to pursue peace and unity,” he asserted.
Underscoring the role of the Nagaland Legislators’ Forum on the Naga Political Issue in as a facilitator in fostering dialogue and understanding, he said that the forum has continued to act as a bridge between the negotiating parties and the people of Nagaland, taking the issue to the highest levels, engaging with the prime minister and central leaders.
Rio also expressed gratitude for the unified approach demonstrated by the opposition-less governments of the 13th and 14th Assemblies, stating that it reflects a shared commitment to peace, justice, and progress.
He also highlighted integration of contiguous Naga-inhabited areas-- a long-standing aspiration rooted in the 16-Point Agreement-- and said that the issue remains a core part of the larger Naga political movement. Since 1964, the Assembly has passed six resolutions advocating for the administrative integration of contiguous Naga-inhabited areas, with the most recent resolution in 2018.
“We will continue to pursue this goal in the spirit of unity and solidarity”, he said.
Furthermore, he emphasised the NLA’s role as a democratic body embodying the people’s will and the responsibility of lawmaking for public good. The Assembly has consistently passed Acts through respectful discussions and without discord, demonstrating a commitment to conducting proceedings with dignity, reflecting shared values and mutual respect for differing viewpoints, he said.
The chief minister emphasised the importance of accountability, stating that the government is answerable to the Assembly and relies on its confidence. He said that there are various mechanisms that ensure this accountability, including assembly questions, debates, resolutions, and the work of house committees.
Over the years, the NLA has a proud legacy of conducting its business with dignity and respect, a tradition that is becoming increasingly rare in today’s times, he said, while expressing confidence that the House and those that follow will continue to uphold this noble tradition.
Embody true Naga spirit— Dr. Jamir
Former Chief Minister and veteran leader, Dr. SC Jamir, one of the surviving members of Nagaland’s interim body, urged the Assembly to embody the “true Naga spirit” of courage, honesty, and truthfulness.
Reflecting on the state’s genesis, he noted the significance of the 60th anniversary as a time to remember the struggles and sacrifices of the past. He recalled the turbulent 1950s, a period marked by oppression and the formation of the Naga People’s Convention (NPC), which ultimately paved the way for Nagaland’s creation in 1963.
He said that Nagaland’s formation was born out of a political agreement between the NPC and then-Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, rather than linguistic demarcation. This distinct origin, forged through the sacrifices of the Naga people, he said, shaped the state’s identity and future.
He also recounted the historic decision to name the state “Nagaland,” stating that this was the choice of the Naga people themselves.
Furthermore, he explained that the NLA’s 60-seat structure was a deliberate decision made to reflect the aspirations of the people rather than population-based representation. This decision, he said, was made during deliberations with Nehru and provided Nagaland with a unique constitutional framework that recognised its distinct identity and political needs.
He went on to stress the historical importance of the 16-Point Agreement, signed in 1957, as a result of NPC efforts, which solidified Nagaland’s position within India and guaranteed special protections under Article 371A. These safeguards, he asserted, stand as a testament to the state’s unique heritage and the genuine political commitment of Naga leadership at the time.
As the NLA marks its 60th year, Dr. Jamir urged Assembly members to confront contemporary realities and challenges with clarity. He implored the NLA to uphold the Constitution, respect India’s sovereignty, and remain true to the oaths they have taken as Christians, pushing forward with integrity and resilience in today’s rapidly changing world.
A call for unity and commitment
Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) S. Supongmeren Jamir, in his address, lauded the Assembly’s role as the “pulse of the people,” reflecting the hopes and aspirations of every citizen.
Reflecting on the past six decades, he acknowledged the challenges Nagaland has faced, from socio-economic obstacles to the ongoing pursuit of a political identity that reflects the state’s unique heritage and culture.
He urged the legislators to continue working together to address pressing issues like youth unemployment, infrastructure development, and the need for sustainable economic growth, while being committed to fostering peace, unity, and progress, drawing strength from their culture and spirit.
The event also witnessed addresses from Joshua Sumi, President of the Ex-Parliamentarian Association Nagaland, and NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, who emphasised the importance of unity in achieving lasting peace. Minister KG Kenye delivered the concluding remarks, while Deputy Speaker S Toiho Yeptho led the programme.
On the occasion, the Assembly Secretariat Complex’s botanical garden was inaugurated and named after the first NLA Speaker, the late TN Angami.