Patton calls for concerted efforts to address ‘illegal migrant’ issues

Morung Express News
Wokha | May 10

Nagaland Home Minister, Y Patton, said the increasing presence of people of “doubtful origin” along the neighbourhood is a serious concern for Nagaland state in particular, and the region in general.

The minister said the socio-economic and demographic threat posed by “illegal immigrants” to Naga people is alarming and that the PDA government is committed to tackling the issue with all seriousness.

Patton also acknowledged the role of the Naga Students’ Federation and said besides taking up other socio-political issues, the Federation has been at the forefront on the issue of “illegal immigration” in the state.

“However, the NSF and Government alone cannot resolve such an alarming issue but it calls for a concerted efforts and pro-active role of every stakeholder. Therefore, I call upon every concerned citizen including civil societies to partake actively in containing the illegal migrant issues in the state”, the Home minister said in his address in valedictory session of the 28 general conference of NSF at Bhandari public ground, Friday evening.

Referring to the border skirmish between Assam and Nagaland in Merapani (under Bhandari sub-division) in 1985, Patton said Bhandari had borne the brunt of the unfortunate confrontation.

“Today, although much understanding has been gained for a peaceful co-existence through the initiatives of Border Peace Committee and civil societies from both the neighbouring states, the border issue has not been resolved as it is in sub-judice. However, since Peace is a pre-requisite for mutual growth, we must continue to uphold the peaceful atmosphere that is prevailing in the area till the matter is resolved amicably. Therefore, I call upon the NSF and the younger generation to be actively involved in exploring peace along the border areas as well’” the Home minister said.

Patton said Naga people are now experiencing a relatively peaceful period with both the GoI and the Naga political groups engaged in finding a permanent solution to the protracted Naga political problem. “In this light, I must admit that the theme of this conference ‘For A Just Future’, is not only appropriate but relevant and imperative as well”, he added.

Patton said the Federation since its inception has contributed immensely towards the welfare and well being of the students’ community in particular and the Naga society in general in line with its motto “For Unified Lim and Glory of Nagas”.

“Naga Students’ Federation as a premier Naga Students’ organization has been confronted with varied challenges and in the course of changing times the federation has not only focus in the prism of students’ welfare alone but has to voice out in socio-political issues and accordingly, the Federation has been taking up many socio-political issues of late”, he said.

Patton further said NSF as a student body also serves as a good platform for moulding young minds and leaders to lead the society.

“I am happy to learn that many former leaders of the NSF have gone on to become leaders in politics shouldering different responsibilities in the state. To my mind, it is a testament that leadership is not just a one-time responsibility but to be in the service at all time when called upon by the people”, the minister said.