Newly elected Lok Sabha MP, S. Supongmeren Jamir, has set forth his parliamentary priorities, emphasizing the long-pending Naga political issue and the concerns of Eastern Nagaland. Speaking at a Thanksgiving program organized by the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) at Congress Bhavan on Friday, Jamir highlighted his commitment to addressing these critical matters.
Political Issue: Jamir stressed the urgency of resolving the Naga political issue, referencing the Framework Agreement and Agreed Position signed by NSCN (I-M) and WC/NNPGs with the Government of India, which have been pending for nine and five years, respectively. He underscored the importance of these agreements and expressed his determination to push for their resolution in Parliament.
ENPO: The MP also pointed out the ongoing Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) issue, which has been a point of contention since 2010. He assured that this matter remains a top priority for him, alongside the Naga political issue.
AFSPA: Jamir voiced his opposition to the extension of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in parts of Nagaland. He plans to urge the central government to exempt Nagaland from AFSPA, citing the ceasefire agreements between the Centre and various Naga political groups. He also called for a more active role for the Ceasefire Monitoring Cell, beyond merely maintaining a ceasefire status.
Unemployment: Addressing the issue of unemployment among educated Naga youth, Jamir emphasized the need to promote entrepreneurship and create job opportunities. He indicated that these initiatives would also be a focal point of his efforts in Parliament.
Reflecting on his initial experiences in Parliament, Jamir expressed gratitude to his voters and recounted his attempts to raise key issues during the last session. Despite challenges in gaining speaking time, he described the experience as valuable and committed to voicing the sentiments of the Naga people during the upcoming budget session from July 22 to August 12.
Congress ideals; During the Thanksgiving program, Jamir reiterated his commitment to the promises made during his campaign. He emphasized that Congress stands for the people, secularism, traditions, and the protection of minorities. He echoed the sentiments of state chaplain Rev. Yamyap Konyak, who highlighted the spiritual support behind the party’s success.
Future vision: Looking ahead, Jamir called for a new vision and continuous preparation for the 2028 state election, aiming for Congress to form the government. He acknowledged the party’s shortcomings and urged a constructive approach to build leadership and meet the expectations of the All India Congress Committee (AICC).
Poll successes: Jamir highlighted the Congress’s recent successes in the Lok Sabha election and the Urban Local Body (ULB) elections. Despite limited campaign time, the party fielded 42 candidates and secured seven seats in the ULB elections. He stressed the need for dedicated workers to lead the party and the importance of restructuring the party’s working system to secure a win in 2028.
Party Unity
In his address, AICC secretary in-charge of Nagaland, Ranajit Mukherjee, recounted the challenges faced during Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra in Nagaland. He described the Yatra as a turning point, revealing unexpected public support and boosting the Congress’s morale. Mukherjee likened the parliamentary elections to a David vs. Goliath battle, attributing the Congress’s victory to the people of Nagaland, civil societies, and churches advocating for fair elections.
The Thanksgiving program also featured short speeches from party frontals, ACCCs, and DCCs. State chaplain Rev. Yamyap Konyak delivered the invocation, with NPCC vice president W Akum chairing the program, NPCC working president Khriedi Theünuo giving the welcome address, and vice president GK Zhimomi proposing the vote of thanks. Special musical performances were presented by the Dimapur Mahila Congress Committee and Dzüvingunuo Kelio.