State deputy chief minister T.R. Zeliang said that the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) election would be possible only after the 2024 Lok Sabha election and delimitation exercise in various wards of urban local bodies.
Speaking at the inauguration of NDPP office cum conference Hall at Jalukie on Wednesday, Zeliang expressed confidence that with the passage of Nagaland Municipal Amendment Bill, ULB polls could be held smoothly. Once, elections are held, many issues faced by municipals and towns would be resolved, he said.
“For 22 years, we could not hold ULB election due to opposition from tribal bodies. During this period, we missed so many central projects involving huge amount of money. Even maintaining of law and order has become a problem due to non-conduct of ULB election.
Our municipal and towns are existing without guardians,” Zeliang said and called upon the people to be mentally prepared to hold the election. Zeliang conveyed appreciation to all tribals body leaders for understanding the exigency of the issues this time and for coming to term with the government.
On the occasion, the deputy CM also disclosed that the long-awaited foothill road, which is proposed to traverse across the state, would soon become a reality.
Asserting that only good road connectivity can make Nagaland a progressive state, Zeliang said foothill road was one major project that would help the people immensely in economic activities. He therefore sought the support and cooperation of all for successful implementation of important projects in the state. “I appeal to all sections of people not to disturb the road projects. Let the contractors carry on the work as per specification without interference from the public,” Zeliang said.
Meanwhile, Zeliang urged NDPP workers to be fully aware of the developmental works being implemented by the government and take it to the people. He said that only stable government can take the people forward to a greater height with active support of the people. Former speaker and in-charge of NDPP party Peren region Ndang also spoke on the occasion.