EMN
DIMAPUR, MARCH 28
Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio has extended his heartiest congratulations to Atal behari Vajpayee who has been honoured with the country’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna. The former Prime Minister is the most respected leader across the political spectrum and is a national icon, Rio said in a statement. His service and dedication to the nation and his contributions to nation building makes him the most deserving person to be honoured with the award, the MP added.
According to Rio, Vajpayee was a popular Prime Minister who reached out to all sections of the people and made every possible effort to unite the country while also contributing towards building of India’s positive image and reputation amongst the comity of nations. In a career that spanned several decades, his contributions towards the cause of the nation are laudable and immeasurable.
The Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) was formed with his blessings when he was the Prime Minister. It was also under his prime ministership when I first became Chief Minister of Nagaland and the Naga people still warmly recollect his historic visit to Nagaland in 2003 when he spent three days in Kohima. During his visit he met and interacted with all sections of the Nagas and reassured the people with his sincere love and affection. “It was on October 28, 2003, at Kohima, that Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee while addressing a civic reception stated that ‘Nagaland has a unique history’. We are sensitive to this historical fact. We do not wish to impose any external customs on you. India has a long tradition of tolerating diverse customs and ways of life. You have nothing to fear. Throughout history, India has been a laboratory of Unity in Diversity to the entire world,” said the statement of Rio. India’s uniqueness and strength lie in her diversity. “Therefore, Nagaland’s unique tradition has contributed to India’s strength. I wish to assure you on another score. India is a secular nation, both because of our Constitution and, more importantly, because of our civilisational ethos,” he stated. “As you know, India is home to all the faiths in the world. India has respected and protected all faiths.” He also announced a record economic package for Nagaland during his visit. It was in this manner that Vajpayee won the hearts of the Naga people and the Nagas still recollect his historic visit with fond memories, Rio stated.
“I am sure the people of Nagaland join me in conveying our joy and happiness to the former Prime Minister on being honoured with the country’s highest civilian award and we all take this opportunity to wish him well. He remains a beloved leader and a true statesman,” the Lok Sabha MP added.
