Congress manifesto promises ‘final solution’ to Naga political issue; spells 7-point policy for NE

The Congress party has promised that it will enter into an agreement with Naga political groups and find a “final solution” to the Naga political problem if it is elected to power in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections 2024.

The Congress party in its manifesto released on Friday said, “A final solution and agreement will be entered into with the Naga groups on the basis of the preliminary agreement that had been agreed in 2013-14.”

The details of the “final solution and agreement” were not highlighted in the manifesto. However, the Communications Department of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) informed that it will issue a statement in this respect “as and if required” in adherence with the established protocol of the party.

North Eastern States

The Congress party also spelled out a 7-point policy for the Northeast in its manifesto, stating that the North Eastern states within the Union of India represent the pluralism and diversity of India. “We are proud that we are a diverse country that is home to many races, religions and languages,” it said.

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The seven points mentioned in the manifesto of the Congress party with regard to the NE India region read:

1. We will assess the infrastructure deficit in the North Eastern states and provide more funds for building infrastructure.
2. We will support Border Trade and make every effort to increase the volume and value of such trade.
3. Congress will revive the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in the North Eastern states and make them an effective instrument of local government. We will ensure that more funds are channelised through the ADCs for developmental works.
4. We will ensure that tea garden workers receive fair wages and other benefits in accordance with the applicable laws and agreements.
5. The situation in Manipur has gone from bad to worse due to the callous neglect of the BJP/NDA government. Congress will remove the present state government forthwith and heal the wounds between the communities. We will appoint a Reconciliation Commission to bring about a political and administrative settlement that will be satisfactory to all the people of the state. 6.
6. We will ensure appropriate compensation and redress for the victims and survivors of the conflict in Manipur.
7. A final solution and agreement will be entered into with the Naga groups on the basis of the preliminary agreement that had been agreed in 2013-14.

Elsewhere in the manifesto, the Congress party also promised to enhance financial assistance to the Autonomous District Councils in the North Eastern states.

Mokokchung Times