A Staff Reporter
Dimapur, October 10
Home minister, Y Patton, today reminded the Goan Burahs (GBs), who are the custodian of the society, to uphold the esteemed institution in dispensing justice system particularly in the areas of traditional values, customary practices and usages having a constitutional protection under Article 371 (A) of the Indian Constitution.
Addressing the gathering of GBs to mark the silver jubilee celebration of the GBs’ Union Dimapur (GBUD) at IMC Hall, Patton called upon the GBs to shoulder responsibility as expected of them for a peaceful and harmonious co-existence. Dwelling on the motto ‘Unity, Peace and Justice’ Patton urged the GBs to be vocal in delivering justice without fear or favour.
Stating that Naga society is at a crucial juncture particularly in relation to the Indo-Naga peace talk, Patton urged the GBs to endeavour unifying all the ‘Naga political groups’ for an early settlement. Recounting his meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was eager to solve the issue at the earliest, Patton said the solution now lies with the Nagas in coming together for one united cause.Terming Dimapur as a cosmopolitan district with complex problems, Patton urged the GBs to properly verify identity of any outsiders who come for settlement in their respective locality. He stressed that anti-social activities were often perpetrated by such outsiders and implicated to genuine settlers. In this regards, the Home minister urged the GBs to remain vigilant against such elements.
Also pointing out that GBs are bridges between the Government and public, Patton urged the former to be diligence in discharging their assigned duty. He said the GBs must go along with other agencies of the administration and avoid conflict in delivering justice at their level. He has also encouraged the GBs to be aware on the law and its implications and make themselves more conscious agent of the government.
While acknowledging the plight of the GBs in discharging their duties, Patton said the present government under the dynamic leadership of the State chief ministrt, TR Zeliang is committed to address any genuine grievances of the GBs and to take measures for their welfare. He has assured to extend all possible assistance and take along as reliable partner in the effective governance of the State. Patton has also conveyed greetings from the Chief Minister on the occasion.
Parliamentary Secretary for Irrigation and Flood Control, Jacob Zhimomi, SDO (C) James Swu, presidents of Nagaland GBs’ Federation, Dimapur District GBs’ Federation, Dimapur Muslim Council and Naga Council Dimapur also exhorted the gathering.
