Naga community in Delhi calls for revocation of Rio's suspension

New Delhi, June 10 (ANI): Taking stock of various issues faced by the Naga community, an interactive meeting was held in New Delhi recently, where Naga elders, intellectuals, professionals, student leaders and well wishers called for the revocation of the suspension of Lok Sabha MP Neiphiu Rio.

The meeting, initiated by likeminded Nagas of Delhi with A C Kharingpam as convenor, deliberated on issues, including the framework agreement that was signed on August 3, 2015 and the Naga People's Front (NPF) party fiasco in Nagaland.

Members acknowledged the tremendous contribution of Rio's leadership to the cause of Nagas, but at the same time, expressed apprehension about recent developments within the Naga People's Front (NPF).

"We cannot compromise our future at this juncture because the peace process has reached a very important point. The framework agreement has been signed and now it's been ten months. It should happen within a year," said Rio.

While observing the inconsistency of the showcase notice that eventually led to Rio's suspension, the members once again acknowledged his contributions towards ensuring the socio-political and economic progress of Naga society, the statement said.

"The issues of the community should be placed above vested interests within the NPF leadership. Therefore, I would like to appeal to all sensible Nagas to come forward and voice our solidarity. We should settle this matter with reconciliation and understanding without further delay. Therefore, I appealed to all present NPF leaders to come forward to the table of reconciliation", Wungnaongam , from Manipur added.

While urging the leadership of the NPF and various stakeholders to let good sense and sound judgement prevail, members present said not revoking the suspension statement would belittle the magnanimous contribution of Rio.

The meeting urged every Naga citizen to go in for deeper introspection and sacrifice, the statement said.