Rio and TR Zeliang joint statement for early solution

Dimapur, 18th Dec (NP): The joint statement comes after over a month when both the PDA and the NPF, during the November 5 joint press conference, failed to agree on coming together under one platform for Naga political issue.

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio and leader of opposition, T.R. Zeliang have issued a joint statement calling upon the Government of India and Naga organisations participating in the peace talks to arrive at an early solution, which will bring lasting peace and prosperity to the people of the region. 

As reported, Union Home minister Amit Shah had advised both PDA and NPF to hold a joint press conference and to endorse the October 15 consultative meeting resolution.

Political observers were of the opinion that Centre also desired that both Rio and Zeliang issue a joint statement after the joint press meet, which did not happen.

The main point that Amit Shah had focussed on was– to have all political parties and legislators come together so as to endorse the October 15 resolutions.

This according to political observers was a clear indication that Government of India was serious about bringing an early political solution to the vexed Naga issue.

Now after over a month, the two leaders said that they have issued the joint press statement “for clarity and general understanding in the greater interests of peace and unity.”

The chief minister and the leader of opposition acknowledged the seven-point resolution adopted during the October 15 consultative meeting held at the State Banquet Hall, Chief Minister’s Residential complex, Kohima.

The two leaders further appreciated and welcome the positive approach of the Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and the Union Home minister, Amit Shah towards expediting the ongoing peace talks.

They maintained that under the initiative of the State government, the October 15 consultative meeting was held in the presence of Naga hohos, mass based organisations, civil societies, Church organisations, political parties, NGOs and prominent individuals to discuss the Naga issue as well as the ongoing peace talks between the Government of India and the participating Naga organisations.

The leaders also acknowledged that NPF party, under the banner of the Political Affairs Mission, took the initiative to organise a consultative meeting on September 14 at Rhododendron hall NAPTC, Chumukedima.

Meanwhile, the statement asserted that the opposition NPF party acknowledged the content and spirit of the resolutions adopted at the October 15 consultative meeting and was “committed to actively support all initiatives towards resolution of the Naga issue.”