The Rengma Selo Zi (RSZ) has expressed “strong resentment” over the alleged personal and verbal threat made against chief secretary, R. Binchilo Thong, by deputy chief minister & Home minister, Y. Patton.
RSZ president Kenneth Kath, in a press release further expressed deep concerned on learning of the chief secretary being allegedly threatened with the words “he (Patton) will finish him once he reaches Nagaland,” in relation to discharge of the chief secretary’s official duties. “This is a serious issue of abuse of power and corruption in the state Government and raises serious concerns of good governance” the release stated.
The powers and responsibilities given to elected representatives being misused for cheap threats and bullying is not only dishonourable but also unacceptable, it added. The RSZ further asserted that it, or any organization and right-thinking individual, cannot tolerate such condemnable acts by a senior legislator. The RSZ also denounced and vehemently condemned the attack on an officer occupying the dignified and respected position of chief secretary, which, RSZ said, is seen as a direct attack and insult on both to the office of the chief secretary and the bureaucracy and also the incumbent. Calling for serious government intervention in this matter the RSZ expressed hope on behalf of all people concerned with human rights and as a voice of the youth in particular, that the appropriate authority will ensure that the matter is taken up on priority and with all seriousness at the earliest. It also called for all possible measures to safeguard and protect the position and office of the chief secretary “in the spirit of good and responsible governance and to instill fresh confidence and reassure the youths in particular and society in general for a responsible people-centric governance.”
The RSZ further asserted that in case of any untoward incident or damage against the officer concerned, the deputy chief minister will be held responsible.