Minister G Kaito Aye addressing the programme on Wednesday
at Phek Town.
KOHIMA — Minister
for Roads and Bridges G Kaito Aye on Wednesday expressed hope that the
protracted Naga political issue would be resolved soon as dialogues are ongoing
between the Centre and the Naga Political Groups (NPGs).
He stated this while addressing the Sükrünye festival at
local ground, Phek Town, as the Sükrünye guest. The event was organised by the
Phek Town Public Forum (PTPF).
Aye said there should be a solution to any conflict and
urged the NPGs to respect the community, listen to the people, and take the
voice of the people to the negotiation table.
Aye extended greetings on behalf of the Sumi community and
the government of Nagaland to the Chakhesang people on the festive occasion.
He stressed the importance of preserving one's culture and
urged the people to send goodwill messages to one another and strengthen
relations.
Meanwhile, leader of the NPF Legislature Party, Kuzholuzo
Nienu, who hosted the festival, urged Nagas to prioritise unity over
self-centric approaches.
Nienu said that Naga unity is at its most crucial juncture
now. He expressed hope that even if the ENPO attains its demand, the remaining
tribes would stand firm and united in their cause for the unresolved Naga
issue.
"We have nothing to do with the Framework Agreement,
solution, and settlement. Our forefathers gave their lives for sovereignty
alone, and we should stick to sovereignty,” he said, adding that unity is
paramount.
He emphasised that people should adopt a culture of
unconditional love for one another, irrespective of past wrongdoings.
The festival celebration featured a cultural procession,
blowing of the trumpet, folk tunes, folk dances, traditional fire-making,
weaving, matchbox bean games, and a greased bamboo pole-climbing competition.
