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Nagaland Govt to rely on collective view

By Correspondent

DIMAPUR, Jan 21 - The ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) in Nagaland today clarified that the People�s Democratic Alliance Government�s stand on the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill would be based on the collective view of the people.

The media and communications cell of the party issued a statement following vehement opposition to the Bill by the Opposition Naga People�s Front and Naga civil society organisations.

The NDPP appreciated all sections of people who expressed concern over the Bill and said rights, safeguards and protection of �our people are a common concern for all of us�.

Keeping this in view, the party said the State cabinet has decided to call a consultative meeting of all sections of people, including tribal hohos, civil society groups, NGOs, political parties, prominent citizens and all stakeholders to ascertain their views, opinions and suggestions on the matter.

It said the State Government would take the consensus arrived at, in the meeting as its stand and present it before the Centre.

The NDPP also pointed out that the State cabinet has referred the matter to the Standing Committee on Article 371 (A) of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, which includes members from all political parties, to study the issue and submit its report to the House so that measures could be taken up collectively to further protect and safeguard �our people�.

On the report of the State Government-constituted panel on the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR)/Inner Line Permit (ILP)/Inclusion of Dimapur under ILP, the party said the final report and recommendations would be submitted only after taking opinions and suggestions from all sections in a transparent and democratic manner. It appealed to all concerned to come forward and give their recommendations through written submissions and also by participating in the consultative meet.

�Naga society is a very open and democratic society. Therefore, in keeping with this tradition of ours, let us all come forward and participate in a positive and democratic manner, while avoiding all forms of negativity, with the sole intention of protecting and safeguarding the rights of our people for now and for generations to come,� the NDPP said.

Also, stating that the matter is of utmost importance and would have far-reaching repercussions, the party called for addressing it in a patient and sensible manner. The NDPP assured that the recommendations of the ILP committee and the stand of the State Government would truly reflect the will and desire of the people.

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