[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he role of the Opposition Congress (NPCC) recently is under the scanner. In any democracy, someone once said, “The role of the Opposition is to oppose.” True. However, there are instances like natural calamities—earthquakes, flash floods, communal riots, bombings, any perceived threat etc—when the Opposition should also join forces with the Government in the interest of the people as a whole.The NPCC has been trying to some extent on valid issues even hinting at stoppage of funds from the Centre. But lately its focus appears skewed.To cite one instance, it has threatened to boycott the celebrations of the Golden Jubilee of Nagaland’s statehood unless Health and Family Welfare Minister, Imkong L. Imchen is dismissed or removed from the Council of Ministers.
The Legislators of Mokokchung District have expressed their solid support to Imkong Imchen whose case is sub judice and is in the court of law. What is the connect of the said case with the Golden Jubilee celebrations? Youth Resources and Sports Minister, Merentoshi R. Jamir. Nagaland’s has aptly stated that statehood was achieved not by any particular political party but by the efforts of the entire people of Nagaland.
The views of the Opposition would carry far more weight if it reasoned on the Naga issue with suggestions to achieve Naga political aspirations. It has within its folds matured political veterans who have the interest of the people at large.
Again, both the NPCC and the NPF-led DAN Government and even the omni present Church have been silent on the movement sparked by ACAUT. The public have been tolerating the unabated taxation by various groups, perhaps for fear of the gun culture, and have decided to “light a candle instead of cursing the darkness” to find a way out of the labyrinth we find ourselves in.
It is not really the duty of ACAUT or any other NGOs for that matter, to rally the public for relief from unabated taxations. But since the people just want peace under any circumstances, the voice of the people is desparately trying to find some shape.
The public will be encouraged to see their leaders engage constructively on these grave matters with sincerity and heart. Its ramifications if unattended is only more misery.
