Kohima
March 5, 2025
Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday addressed several pressing issues in the state, including the prolonged Naga political issue, integration of Naga-contiguous areas, rationalisation of teachers, Trans Nagaland Highway, and the reservation policy.
Speaking on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s address during the 14th Naga Legislative Assembly session, Rio reaffirmed that the Naga political issue remains the top agenda of his government. Acknowledging the seriousness of the Naga political solution, Rio assured that further discussions and consultations would be held.
He urged the Government of India to be more sincere in addressing the matter, noting that central representatives have been visiting Nagaland for talks with Naga groups, NGOs, and individuals. He also revealed that he and his cabinet colleagues plan to meet the Union Home Minister soon to discuss the issue after consulting with Naga political groups.
Expressing concern over the prolonged deadlock, Rio emphasized the need for an early resolution that is honorable, inclusive, and acceptable to the people. He also highlighted the necessity of discussing the possibility of bringing Nagaland back under the External Affairs Ministry, as per the 16-Point Agreement, through parliamentary committees and legislative discussions.
On the issue of Naga-contiguous area integration, Rio mentioned that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly has adopted multiple resolutions in its support. While the exact number of times the resolution has been passed remains unclear, he listed eight specific instances, including those on December 12, 1962; August 28, 1970; September 16, 1994; December 8, 2003; July 5, 2015; September 20, 2018; February 18, 2021; and August 3, 2021.
