State deputy chief minister Y Patton has said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi was willing to provide a solution for the Naga issue, but unity among the Naga factions was essential to achieve solution.
The deputy chief minister disclosed this while speaking as special guest at the 175th anniversary of amalgamation of Lhisemia Khel, Kohima village at the NBCC Convention Centre here Saturday.
Patton, who is also state BJP legislature party leader, asserted that the Government of India was prepared to offer a single solution for the entire Nagas rather than multiple solutions for various factions.
Patton maintained that he was not against factions that were genuinely negotiating with the Government of India to reach a final resolution.
However, the deputy chief minister, who also holds home portfolio, said that many factions were either engaged in extortion or pursuing their own interests.
Patton has urged all Naga political groups to unite and collaborate in order to achieve a permanent Naga political solution provided they were sincerely committed to the welfare of the Naga people.
Patton recalled that during the early days of the Naga political movement, particularly under the late A.Z. Phizo, there were no factions or divisions, adding the Nagas were united.
“There was no illegal taxation or extortion, and the Naga freedom fighters were respected by all citizens for their dedicated commitment to the true spirit of the Naga freedom movement for self-determination,” he stated.
However, Patton expressed dismay that the political movement has now splintered into approximately 28 factions leading to a fragmented governance that was plagued by illegal taxation and extortion. “This situation has made it increasingly difficult for the Naga people to pursue progressive and sustainable activities,” Patton stated.
The deputy chief minister has, therefore, appealed to everyone to promote the message of peace and unity among the Naga society, regardless of tribe, clan, or region and ensure progress and prosperity for the state and future generations.
Further, Patton pointed out that chief minister Neiphiu Rio had formed an opposition-less government uniting all 60 MLAs under one umbrella regardless of their political affiliations. “This initiative aims to foster unity within Naga society and to find a lasting solution to the long-standing Naga political issue,” he said.
Patton also acknowledged that while adversaries may raise various allegations against the opposition-less government, it was formed with noble intentions, aimed at promoting good governance rather than misrule.
On the occasion, Patton noted that celebrating 175th anniversary was a rare milestone for any organization, association, or council in the region. Patton expressed admiration for the vision and wisdom of the forefathers, who, back in 1850, desired to live together without distinctions among themselves.
He recalled that back in 1850 when the Lhisemia khel was non-existent and the people were living in three different khels. However, in order to live together, stand together and to grow stronger to fight against adversaries on any of its members, Patton said the visionary leaders of those time initiated to form one entity by merging the three khels together as ‘Lhisemia’ following a traditional ritual for bondage, adding Lhisemia khel has grown thus far.
Patton also stressed that Kohima village, as traditional landowners of the state capital Kohima, has a significant role to play. “They can act as catalysts for community cohesion among the Nagas and others residing in Kohima,” he said. Patton acknowledged that they have steadfastly supported the government in challenging times and expressed hope that they would continue to contribute positively to the welfare of Naga society in the future.
Earlier, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu spoke about the history of Lhisemia Amalgamation while advisor for school education & SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, MLA, conveyed greetings.
Kohima Village Council chairman, Helievi-o Solo, also delivered a brief speech.
Keneisenuo Sorhie, Menguseü Suokhrie, and the Lhisemia Choir enthralled the gathering with a special performance.
Rev. Keviyiekielie Linyü, Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Sepfüzou, Kohima, offered the invocation while Lhisemia Council chairman Ayie Yhome delivered welcome address.
Tseivilie Miachieo later expressed gratitude.
Rev. Fr. Keduoneilie Alex Vizo, Parish Priest of St. Francis Xavier’s Church in Kidima, prayed before monolith unveiling ceremony. Neingusalie Khruomo and Neitseizonuo Liezietsu chaired the programme.
Cabinet meeting on Jan 6
Later, speaking to the media persons, Patton disclosed that a cabinet meeting would be held to address the meeting with NSCN (I-M) and seven NNPGs on January 6 once the chief minister and deputy chief minister, who were currently out of the state, return.
He said that the state government was not notified about the tripartite talks concerning the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) involving the Central government, Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO), and the Nagaland government, which was set to continue on January 5 in Delhi. However, he informed that the central government would update the state government on the outcome of the meeting.