PHED Minister Jacob Zhimomi and others during a BJYM programme in Chümoukedima on September 26. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | September 26
Despite an alleged improvement in the security environment, Nagaland has the Armed Forces Special Powers (AFSPA) Act, 1958, extended again for another six months, beginning October 1. The extent of the Act covers nine districts— Dimapur, Niuland, Chümoukedima, Mon, Kiphire, Noklak, Phek, Peren and Meluri. It also has been partially extended to areas falling under 21 police stations in Kohima, Mokokchung, Longleng, Wokha and Zunheboto districts.
On September 26, Nagaland Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) Minister Jacob Zhimomi was asked whether the extension was warranted given the perceived peaceful situation in the state. Zhimomi, who was at a BJYM programme in Chümoukedima, said that national security and integrity remain the primary concern of any sovereign nation.
“In the interest of national security, there may be reasons for the Government of India (GoI) to take such decisions again because national integrity and national security is the topmost priority of any sovereign nation. So the Central Government in their best wisdom, they have applied that. And that would be my opinion,” said Zhimomi.
Nevertheless, he maintained that Nagaland remains peaceful and conducive for any development ventures. The Minister maintained that the overall law and order situation across the state is calm, adding that the people are content and want to move forward with economic activity.
Responding to questions on division among civil society and tribal organisations, Zhimomi called debate a natural part of a democratic system. He expressed hope that the current trend of grouping into blocs would eventually disappear as younger generations get exposed to the world at large.
He also advised against commenting on subjects outside one’s domain of expertise, stating that organisations must show patience and work together rather than attempt to establish dominance over one another.
Asked about the proposed 50-50 oil revenue-sharing deal between Assam and Nagaland in the Disputed Area Belt, Zhimomi said any decision must serve the interest of the people first. He declined to comment on the Vande Mataram controversy.
