Nagaland: PAC takes ‘illegal collection’ issue to governor’s doorstep

Dimapur, Sep. 9 (EMN): The Public Action Committee (PAC) of Naga Council Dimapur has requested Governor RN Ravi to tackle the issue of ‘illegal collection’ by both state and non-state actors in Dimapur.

In a representation submitted to the governor on Monday, the committee stated that the ceasefire agreements between the government of India and various Naga political groups have brought about peace, as well as economic benefits to the state.

“The freedom of movement and free expression has increased over the years. Simultaneously there have been some unhealthy developments. The state of corruption has reached extreme indescribable heights, which has affected genuine development of all and created social and economic disparity in our society.

“Furthermore the illegal collection of money by vested interests in the state government machinery and Naga political groups has increased manifold during the ceasefire period. Ceasefire has become a license for illegal collection. This is especially true in the case of Dimapur. The younger generation is losing faith in the existing rule of law since they have nowhere to redress their grievances,” the statement read.

The PAC, it stated, appreciates the desire of both the government of India and the Naga political groups in finding a peaceful and honorable solution to the long-standing Naga issue.

“We are confident that no stone will be left unturned. In this intervening period, when a solution is being worked out, the interest of the general public should not be ignored. The rights of the public should be protected against any illegal actions, which are detrimental to human development, security and progress,” it stated.

The committee requested Ravi to: immediately end the “illegal collection” of money by state government machinery; resolve the issue of ‘illegal collection” of money by the Naga political groups through the peace process; and strengthen the judicial process and rule of law to protect and safeguard the public.