Dimapur, July 12 (EMN): The Ao Students’ Union Dimapur (ASUD) has expressed strong indignation at the recent series of events happening in the state and the utter negligence on the part of the government.
“As a student community, we are deeply concerned at the way in which our leaders have ignored the calamities that have befallen the state and people while pursuing selfish political gains in the most undignified manner” ASUD stated.
In addition to floods and multiple landslides in various pockets of the state and the ongoing tussle involving the members of the state legislature, the unfortunate collapse of the bridge at 4th Mile (Dimapur), ASUD said this prove that the State government is not in position to prevent and mitigate disasters nor handle political conflict through consensus.
In a press release issued through its information and publicity secretary, Sentimeren Pongen, stated that the Tuesday’s catastrophe could have been averted had precautionary measures been undertaken at the right time. The bridge being the only lifeline for residents of Niuland and adjoining areas, once again the public will bear the brunt for the government’s failure to address the most pressing issues at hand, it added.
ASUD expressed that it was disheartening that the cabinet has directed the setting up of an enquiry committee to ascertain “the circumstances leading to the collapse of the bridge” when it is clear to all and sundry that the only circumstance was the lackadaisical behaviour on the part of the government itself.
“The mandate of the public has been insulted and mocked at through the display of insouciant attitude by the leaders” ASUD stated.
“While the ASUD has no predilection towards any political party or coalition, it feels that the common people have suffered enough injustices at the hands of corrupt leaders whose only ideal appears to be that of amassing wealth and possessions for their own gains” the press release added.
Reiterating their stand to remain committed to the Clean Election Campaign, the ASUD also appealed to all young Nagas not to get caught in the vicious cycle of unclean political practices.
Further, ASUD expressed hope that all right thinking citizens and civil society organisations would come together and not only make voices heard but also ensure that ‘we’ exercise the franchise in support of upright leaders.
Meanwhile, the ASUD extended its deepest sympathies to the family and relatives of the victims of Tuesday’s mishap.
