Dimapur, June 14 (EMN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has clarified a news report which appeared in certain sections of the national and local media on June 12 and 13th attributing a quote to him ‘that integration of Naga inhabited areas is not possible.’
A press release from the media cell of the chief minister’s office informed that a delegation of elected members and officials of the Nagaland state government led by the chief minister called on Rajnath Singh, the Union Home Minister in New Delhi on June 12 to discuss a wide number of issues pertaining to the state.’
“Among these discussions, the ongoing Naga political issue and the peace process were also discussed. It was conveyed to the delegation that since integration of contiguous Naga inhabited areas would involve the neighbouring states where Nagas are settled, such integration would not be possible unless it is mutually agreed to by the neighbouring states in question. This was the point of discussion between the Union home minister and the delegation.
“The chief minister only relayed to the media what had been discussed in the meeting. Hence, it cannot and should not be taken as an admission by the chief minister or the state government in any manner whatsoever since the state government is not a direct party to the talks nor (sic) privy to the ongoing negotiations between the GoI and the Naga political groups.
“Dialogue has been going on for the last 21 years and therefore, the chief minister echoed the desire of the Nagas for an early, lasting, honourable, and inclusive settlement. On its part, the state government is making all possible efforts for creation of a conducive atmosphere in its role of being an active facilitator to the ongoing peace process,” the statement read.
