Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Power, K.G. Kenye, addressed the Sixth Session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) on March 8, 2025, at the NLA Secretariat in Kohima, highlighting the critical role of the Legislative Assembly and its committees in shaping the state’s governance.
Kenye described the Legislature as the “Temple of Democracy,” an institution where policies are conceived and transformed into laws that govern the state and its citizens. He emphasized that the role of assembly committees is crucial in coordinating with the working systems of the secretariats to ensure the successful implementation of developmental programs.
According to Kenye, the committees play a dual role—submitting reports that help the government rectify or streamline future plans and programs. The evidence gathered by these committees, both written and oral, has significant long-term implications. He stressed that if the committees’ roles and purposes are compromised, it would undermine the very essence of a people’s government.
Kenye raised concerns about the frequent absence of committee members, which hampers the effective functioning of the committees. He urged members to inform the Speaker in advance if they wish to relinquish their position, so another member can be assigned to ensure the smooth conduct of committee activities.
The minister also addressed the issue of Administrative Heads of Department (AHoDs) and Heads of Department (HoDs) not fulfilling their responsibilities regarding Assembly matters. He noted that the repeated rescheduling of meetings due to their non-attendance creates significant disruptions. He particularly condemned the practice of deputing junior officers to attend in their place, calling it highly inappropriate and urging that it be avoided.
Kenye emphasized that recommendations made by committees must be treated with utmost importance and a mechanism should be in place for their timely implementation. He further stressed that AHoDs and HoDs must be present at Oral Evidence Meetings and Assembly Sessions, reinforcing the need for government officials to respect the legislative process and address the concerns and recommendations raised by the Assembly with sincerity and diligence.
Concluding his remarks, Kenye reaffirmed that the Assembly is the highest democratic institution of governance and must be treated with the seriousness and priority it deserves.