Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday said non-settlement of some ‘symbolic issues’ has been prolonging the Naga political issue even after dialogues and peace talks being held for over last 23 years.
Rio was, however, hopeful that sooner or later, a solution to the issue will come out and called for unity of the Nagas for the same. He was addressing the Administrative Heads of Departments (AHoDs) and Heads of Departments (HoDs) at a meeting in the Secretariat conference hall at Kohima on Tuesday.
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The Chief Minister also informed that a Centre for Peace and Non-violence will be created for the purpose which will be headed by an intellectual, who is experienced and unbiased and who will rise above individualism and tribalism to work with Nagaism in mind.
Rio further reaffirmed that the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government will assist and actively facilitate the ongoing political process.
He said the PDA government came to power with lots of promises which cannot be fufilled without the support and cooperation of AHoDs, HoDs and other officers.
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Asserting that the PAD is committed to enhancing the quality of life of the citizens, Rio underlined the need for re-inculcating work culture and maintaining punctuality, working with accountability and transparency to fulfil the commitments and promises of the government to improve and enhance the quality of life of the people.
“We should not serve ourselves but collectively serve our people,” the Nagaland Chief Minister stated.
On the 91st amendment of downsizing and restricting the appointments of parliamentary secretaries and the question of office of profit, Rio said advisors were appointed in various departments after thorough consultation with legal luminaries. Their talents, expertise and experience will contribute towards the development of the departments, he hoped while urging all the departments to extend their fullest cooperation to the advisors.
On the issue of good governance, he stressed that every department should set a target and follow the same as a challenge.
Rio also urged all government servants to link their service with their Aadhaar card to do away with ghost employees or double or triple employees.
On removing the VIP culture, he expressed happiness that the elected representatives and government officials besides the churches and civil societies have been cooperating with the government.
Commenting on road repairs and potholes, Rio said Rs 50 crore have been sanctioned for immediate repair of roads in Kohima and Dimapur. Asking the department concerned to deliver quality works, he said any concerned citizen can file complain or report if the works are not up to the mark.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton also addressed the meeting.