Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio addressed concerns about the relationship between the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). “We had already given a joint statement that our alliance is normal and as strong as it is. I don’t have any further comments,” Rio stated, emphasizing the stability of the coalition.
He said this to media persons on the sidelines of the felicitation programme of the NDPP Kohima Region on the success of their Urban Local Bodies (ULB) election candidates held at the NDPP Conference Hall in Kohima.
Rio, as the special guest at the event, praised the dedication and hard work of the party workers and congratulated the victorious candidates. Rio also emphasized the significant achievements made so far and highlighted the ongoing political dialogue, noting that the Government of India has already recognized the uniqueness of Naga history. He underscored the need to form a regional party dedicated to protecting these achievements.
He also criticized the people of Nagaland for sometimes not standing firm, urging them to support the regional party to maintain the stronghold of their community. He stressed that much work remains to be done and called for efforts to strengthen the party and improve the state.
Furthermore, Rio pointed out that Nagas have yet to reach a solution and therefore must work together in unity to fortify the party. He urged the people to keep the party’s beliefs intact and to work diligently to protect and promote their identity.
In his speech at the felicitation programme, Rio highlighted the importance of collective effort in politics, noting that the recent ULB elections showcased the unity and strength of the NDPP. He reminded attendees that the NDPP was established to protect the history, tradition, culture, and customary laws of the Nagas, urging members to remain humble and work for the betterment of the community.
He also spoke on the significance of forming a regional party to safeguard the unique identity and rights of the Nagas, stressing the need for unity and dedication to strengthen the party and achieve more for the state.
The chief minister addressed the impact of incidents in neighboring states on the Lok Sabha elections, particularly concerning the Christian community. He assured that the NDPP would not compromise on religious matters and highlighted the challenges of working with a central party, while also acknowledging the necessity of such alliances for regional stability.
Rio encouraged the newly elected councillors to serve the people diligently, noting that their grassroots efforts had helped the party regain its reputation. He discussed the changes in the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, including the repeal of central laws and the introduction of 33% women reservation based on tribal consultations.
On tax issues, Rio mentioned that collected taxes would be used for town beautification and assured cooperation from the public. He also announced plans for councillor training and the introduction of an anti-defection law.
For the first time, the ULB elections saw women winning unreserved seats, which Rio described as a historic achievement. He praised the Chiephobozou constituency for their unopposed wins and thanked the electorate for their support.
Minister of Horticulture & Women Resource Development, Salhoutuono Kruse, also spoke at the event, thanking the people for a peaceful election and urging the newly elected candidates to work with dedication.
Advisor for School Education & SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, highlighted the unique character of Kohima and its reflection of Naga culture, expressing hope for the city’s continued development and betterment.
Speech by elected councillors: Neikhozo Suokhrie expressed the councillors’ commitment to working for the betterment of the people in Kohima. Suokhrie emphasized the importance of collaboration with party leaders to foster development in the region, urging support from leaders under the Chief Minister’s guidance to achieve these goals.
Thenusoü Sekhose Yhome extended gratitude to the chief minister and his colleagues for their focus on women’s issues, highlighting the historic achievements in this election. Thenusoü expressed eagerness to continue the developmental work initiated under the current leadership, aiming to tackle challenges and enhance the city’s smart development ratings.
Kekhrieneinuo Zumvü, representing Chiephobozou, thanked the chief minister and his team for introducing a 33 percent reservation for women and for including Chiephobozou in their recognition efforts. Zumvii looked forward to working collaboratively with all Urban Local Body (ULB) candidates and the party.
The event commenced with an invocation by Pastor Videkho Mekro from the Central Christian Revival Church, D. Block. Special musical performances were delivered by the NDPP Vocal Band, Thejasilie Sekhose, and Kezhiah Semy.
Kechangulie Kense, General Secretary of the NDPP Kohima region, gave the vote of thanks. Members of the Chiephobozou town council and the Kohima region were honored during the program.
The event was chaired by Prasielie Pienyü, President of the NDPP Kohima Region and Chairman of NHHDC Ltd.