Three-pronged strategy to fight N-E militancy: Advani

By Vinay Kumar

KOHIMA (Nagaland), FEB. 24. Emphasising the Centre's special responsibility towards Nagaland where insurgency had gone on for over five decades, the Union Home Minister, Mr. L. K. Advani, today said the people longed for peace and looked forward to complete restoration of peace and normality in this north-eastern State.

``We want to see a climate in Nagaland where everyone can pursue his normal life and find opportunities for employment. So far as the North- East is concerned, let me assure you that New Delhi is very much concerned about the entire region and Nagaland in particular,'' he said here after inaugurating ``Ura Bhavan'', Governor's Secretariat.

Mr. Advani said the Centre was pursuing a three-pronged strategy to counter militancy in the North-East. First, the development which provides employment should be pursued vigorously. Secondly, the climate should be such where everyone felt that violence was wrong and thirdly, the political debate should focus not on ideology but on how best good and effective governance can be provided to the people. ``The choice before the people should be between parties committed to good governance and development. Speeches of political leaders do not matter, only actions count. Development programmes of a government that cares for weak and backward and its caring attitude is the touchstone,'' he said while inaugurating the Spring festival on his maiden visit here.

Pointing out that the peace movement in the State was gaining momentum, the Chief Minister, Mr. S. C. Jamir, said such gains should be consolidated. ``It is hoped that with the Spring festival being held at a time when the peace process is getting momentum, this happy coincidence will generate a new season of hope for the people of Nagaland.'' Mr. Jamir said. It was culture which appealed to the human soul as it transcended the barriers of language.

Later, Mr. Advani and Mr. Jamir addressed a well-attended public rally at Kohima local ground, a rarity in the State where the three-year-old ceasefire has held its ground.

Expressing happiness over the Centre's peace initiatives that resulted in a ceasefire agreement with the NSCN (I-M), Mr. Jamir said any solution emerging out of talks with one faction of the underground groups alone might not bring lasting peace. The present peace initiative should encompass all sections of the people, whether overground or underground, so that an enduring solution could be found.

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