Dimapur: The Rising People’s Party (RPP) has launched a scathing critique against Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, challenging his recent statement about safeguarding the faith and identity of Nagas. According to the RPP, Rio’s assertions are blatantly false, with the reality being much more concerning.
The RPP has pointed out several instances where it perceives Rio’s administration as neglecting Nagaland’s cultural and religious values. One such instance is the proposed establishment of the Rani Gaidinliu Library-cum-Memorial Museum in Kohima, which the RPP claims could have inadvertently promoted activities associated with Heraka and RSS, had the project not been abandoned.
Additionally, the RPP criticized Rio for his apparent silence on issues vital to the Naga community, such as the persecution of Christians in neighboring states and the imposition of Hindi in schools. They lamented Rio’s failure to condemn the burning of churches and persecution of the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, as well as his purported lack of opposition to the Assam Healing Practices Act, which poses a threat to Christian missions.
Moreover, the RPP highlighted instances where they believe Rio’s actions contradicted his purported commitment to Nagaland’s cultural and religious values. These include the declaration of Easter Sunday 2024 as a working day by Nagaland University, the designation of December 25 as Good Governance Day by an “alliance partner,” and the appointment of Yoga teachers in government schools.
Furthermore, the RPP criticized Rio’s response to issues such as the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and the implementation of Inner Line Permit (ILP) regulations in Dimapur. They interpreted Rio’s remarks on the FMR as indicative of a willingness to compromise, despite opposition to its abolition, and accused his government of being negligent in enforcing ILP regulations in Dimapur, allowing it to become a hub for immigrants and fundamentalist organizations.
In conclusion, the RPP painted a grim picture of the current state of affairs in Nagaland, alleging that Rio’s administration has failed to effectively address internal and external threats while seemingly living in a state of denial.
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