Days after the Supreme Court pulled up both the Centre and Nagaland government over non-implementation of 33% quota for women in urban local bodies in Nagaland, adviser urban development and municipal affairs, Zhaleo Rio, asserted that the state government was keen to resolve the ULB issue quickly so that elections could be conducted.
On July 25, 2023, the Supreme Court while slamming both the Centre and Nagaland government gave “one last of the last opportunity” to the state government “in view of the impassioned plea” of the Advocate General for Nagaland.
Speaking to media persons Saturday after the inauguration of East Dimapur Town Council (ESTC) office in the presence of advisor industries and commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, at Purana Bazar, here, Zhaleo Rio said the state government had been holding preliminary talks with stakeholders on ULB election, but the matter was sub judice. However, once the issue was resolved, Zhaleo said the state government would conduct ULB elections.
Informing that there were 39 ULBs in the state, the advisor stated that 20 ULBs were non-functional due to less population and absence of shops and offices.
With regard to concerns over check gate closure impacting revenue collection for civic bodies, Zhaleo said the issue was being addressed and hinted that check gates could reopened to facilitate revenue collection.
On challenges faced by Dimapur including floods during the monsoon, he stressed on the need for citizens to develop civic sense and take responsibility for maintaining drainage systems.
Stating that civic bodies alone cannot handle waste management, he said each and every household should take the responsibility for proper waste disposal. He also urged all responsible to play their part in addressing the issue.
Also, speaking at the programme, advisor industries and commerce, Hekhani Jakhalu, reminded the leaders of East Dimapur Town Council that their positions of influence should be accompanied by sense of responsibility towards welfare of the people they served.
Jakhalu affirmed her commitment to serve the people and assured to do her best in bringing developmental projects to her constituency. The advisor therefore sought support and cooperation from all responsible, saying she would not be able to achieve goals alone.
Jakhalu also reminded the responsibility to take care of public properties.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by EAC Dimapur, Imlijungla, invocation was given by Rev. SN Lotha and welcome address was delivered by ADC and EDTC administrator, Mhalo Humtsoe.
Short speeches were also delivered by DC Dimapur, Sachin Jaiswal and Purana Bazar Tribal Council chairman, Tohoshe Awomi.