‘Politics by gun has fragmented the Naga society’
Nagaland Governor, R.N. Ravi expressed concern that rampant extortions in the State has created a sense of fear among businesses and entrepreneurs, which has severely undermined the economy and growth of the State.
Addressing the 72nd Republic Day programme at Secretariat Plaza here on Tuesday, Ravi pointed out that “the menace of rampant extortions under the guise of illegal taxation by anti social elements has not yet been fully curbed though police and security forces have been taking action against such elements.”
Despite Nagaland being rich in natural resources and endowed with one of the finest human resources, Ravi lamented that the people have not been able to reap optimum benefit of these as well as various progressive schemes of the Central and State governments “–because some extra constitutional entities in the guise of espousing the Naga national cause have queered the pitch for the people and the Government and kept the peace and progress at bay.”
“The Government of India has taken several political initiatives for its enduring resolutions from time to time. The latest initiative since the last 24 years could not fructify as yet due to unrealistic intransigence of some people who are unwilling to forsake the politics by gun,” he stated. Ravi also went on to point out that more Nagas died in fratricidal and factional killings by armed groups who believe in the power of the barrel of gun than in clashes with security forces in the last 50 years. Ravi said the politics by gun has fragmented Naga society, pitting neighbours against neighbours, khels against khels and tribes against tribes. It did not even spare the church for their honest initiatives to usher peace in this land, he said.
On the occasion, Ravi also unfurled the National flag and took the salute of the parade. The parade was led by dy. comdnt, 10th IR, Nikho Venuh and 2 i/c, asstt. comdnt, 15th IR, Ayangla Pongen.
Ravi also inaugurated the stalls set up by various departments. Other highlights include- dance display by Women Resource department, Fusion Music- ‘Run Monday Run’ by TAFMA, cultural dances by Khiamniungan, Rengma and Angami cultural troupes.