ASTD to do away chief guest culture

A Staff reporter Dimapur, January 30 The Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur (ASTD) on Saturday announced that it has decided to do away the ‘chief guest culture’ under its jurisdiction in Dimapur. ASTD president, Sobu Jamir addressing media persons at the ASTD treasurer Dimapur said the decision to do away with the ‘chief guest culture’ was settled at the ASTD general body meeting convened on January 30 here in Dimapur. Terming the long term practice of ‘chief guest culture’ mainly with the intention to extract benefits primarily in cash, the ASTD stated that it will no longer promote the practice among unions affiliated to ASTD. “The unions affiliated to ASTD will not entertain any chief guest with immediate effect for any social gathering and if they would want to do so then they can do that in the guise of resource persons but not with the intention of monetary benefits,” said Sobu Jamir. He further added that the decision was unanimously decided by the ASTD in its general meeting with their main target on work culture where it will encourage the involvement of the Naga society. The ASTD further reaffirmed its decision not to endorse any fund-raise/donation drive through sale of calendars and lottery tickets by its units without the permission of ASTD and if any individual is found violating the resolution on both, the ASTD will take necessary actions.