Naga people waiting for final solution to Naga issue with great hope: Longkumer

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Assembly speaker Sharingain Longkumer said the Naga people have been waiting with great hope and optimism for the solution to the long drawn out Naga political issue.

Hoisting the National Flag during the 72^nd Republic Day celebrations at Dimapur District Sports Complex Stadium here on Tuesday, Longkumer noted that the past few years have seen some very crucial developments towards the final solution of the issue.

Longkumer said the ongoing negotiations with all the parties and groups concerned have seen significant and positive breakthroughs. “This is a spirit of understanding among everyone to continue working unitedly to fulfill established aspirations of our people without any delay overcoming all obstacles,” he stated.

He also spoke on the steps taken by the state government to give further impetus and facilitate the peace process.

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The speaker said the state has not seen any major law and order problem for some time. However, the menace of illegal taxation and forcible collection of money by anti-social elements has not yet fully been curbed in the state despite the best efforts of the police and security forces, he said.

He said continued illegal taxation creates fear psychosis among businesses and entrepreneurs and an adverse environment for the economy of the state. This has resulted in the state not doing well like some other states in several economic indicators, he stated.

Longkumer heaped praise on everyone in the state who worked tirelessly in containing the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. He also lauded the Centre and some international agencies for extending support to the state during the crisis.

He highlighted the various development activities taken up by the government departments for overall development of the state.

“While a day as significant as the Republic Day calls for celebration, it is also a day to introspect and reflect on what we have achieved and what more needs to be done to reach our destination,” Longkumer added.

Later, he inaugurated exhibition stalls put up by various government departments, NGOs and Assam Rifles at the stadium complex.