Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) working president, C. Apok Jamir said the membership drive was not a numerical exercise but a movement aimed at awakening citizens to the challenges faced by the nation.
Saying this, he called upon the people to stand against forces that undermine democratic values and secularism. Apok was speaking at the launching of membership drive of Dimapur District Congress Committee (DDCC) at Congress Bhavan, Dimapur on March 15.
He emphasized the significance of the initiative, describing it as a symbolic and necessary step for the Indian National Congress (INC).
Reiterating the party’s commitment to uphold the Indian Constitution, Apok highlighted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s consistent advocacy for constitutional values.
He also expressed concern on the perceived threats to constitutional principles, asserting that the present government’s policies conflict with the interests of both the Indian populace and Nagaland’s minority communities.
Highlighting the Congress party’s legacy, Apok reminded the party workers of its role in India’s freedom struggle, constitutional development, and protection of marginalized communities. He stressed the need to safeguard secularism, freedom of speech, and religious rights, particularly in a diverse city like Dimapur, and warned against policies that threaten these freedoms.
On the centralization of power under the present government, Apok criticized its approach, particularly in handling the conflicts in Manipur and legislative measures in Assam.
He emphasized that only a united people can resist such actions and the Congress party remains steadfast in defending the Constitution and democratic ideals.
On the rise of divisive ideologies, he cautioned against “militant interpretations” that incite hatred and intolerance, and called for conscious efforts to maintain harmony and prevent communal discord, reiterating that the Congress party stands as a barrier against such threats.
Apok also described Dimapur as the political, economic, and social nerve center of Nagaland and urged the Congress supporters to be proactive in addressing injustices and to mobilize people to stand up for their rights.
On issues of governance and development, he said there was lack of transparency in Nagaland’s administration citing examples of public projects, such as the Dimapur Town Hall’s renovation cost, questioning its proportionality to the allocated funds.
On the Dimapur Airport renovation and encroachment issues at the Railway Station, he said all stakeholders should prioritize public interest in resolving such matters.
At the event, DCC president Kutoho Chishi urged the people to join Congress to safeguard democracy and work towards a corruption-free governance system. He said the drive was not merely political but a call to action for the welfare of the people.
NPCC Minority Department chairman Javed Sarwar highlighted the importance of protecting minority rights, emphasizing that Congress was the only party committed to this cause. strengthening the party.
At the programme welcome address by DCC general secretary Kumjimong, invocation by Jiboner Asha Fellowship Pastor Sanjay Kumar Dey and the programme was chaired by DCC executive member Elizabeth Chophi.
Later, vote of thanks was delivered by DCC general secretary Andrew Humtsoe, followed by the enrollment process presided over by Nagavi.