February 26, 2022
Correspondent
State chief minister Neiphiu Rio Friday asserted that the Centre can re-impose the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958 even after its removal in the event of continued existence of insurgency and recruitment of cadres.
The chief minister said this during Sekrenyie festival the celebration of Angami community at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama here on Friday organized by Angami Public Organization (APO).
Stating that AFSPA was introduced in 1958 due to insurgency in the state, Rio said the demand for removal of AFSPA by Nagas grew after the Oting incident, adding that the state legislative assembly passed a resolution demanding repeal of the Act.
Rio, however, said that the Union home minister Amit Shah clearly conveyed that AFSPA could be removed, but the state should own responsibility for the consequences post removal of the Act. He said if the Act was withdrawn, Nagaland police should operate in place of Armed forces. Rio also said that the state will not progress as long as multiple illegal taxations and extortion continued.
Justifying the formation of the opposition-less government (united democratic alliance) in the state, Rio said the move was to push for Naga political solution, adding it was “partially successful”. On the occasion, Rio stated that God blessed the Angamis abundantly among the various tribes and urged the community members to come in unity and strengthen their bond and friendship.
He said that Sekrenyi festival was known for purification and sanctification, which was observed for good health of the community. Rio also said that the festival was one celebration where an individual showcases one’s culture and traditions through attires, cuisines and sharing stories of ancestors by upholding the values of better understanding and maintaining tranquillity with fellow beings. He also stressed on the need to preserve identity, tradition and culture.
The programme was chaired by APO president, Razouvoto Chatsu, and Rev. Mekhale Yhoshu read the scripture and gave the invocation. A host of legislators, officials and leaders from Angami frontal organisations also attended the celebration.
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