The 70th AKM meet provided a significant platform for Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to reflect on the long-standing Naga political issue and call for a shift in public attitude. Addressing the gathering, Rio urged the people, especially the youth, to move away from a persistent “blame culture” and instead work collectively toward understanding, reconciliation, and solution-oriented thinking. His remarks came at a time when the political discourse in Nagaland continues to grapple with unresolved aspirations and internal differences.
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Moreover, the Chief Minister emphasised that the future of the Naga people depends on unity and responsible dialogue. Speaking at the 70th AKM meet, he highlighted the need for patience, maturity, and shared accountability in addressing political and social challenges.
CM Rio highlights Naga political issue at 70th AKM meet
At the 70th AKM meet, CM Rio acknowledged that the Naga political issue remains a deeply emotional and complex matter. He said decades of negotiations and struggles have shaped public expectations, yet lasting resolution requires collective understanding rather than confrontation.
Additionally, Rio stated that while differing opinions are natural, constant blame and suspicion weaken society. Therefore, he urged organisations and individuals to engage constructively. According to him, meaningful progress can emerge only when people recognise shared responsibility in shaping the future.
Call to end the culture of blame
One of the key messages at the 70th AKM meet was Rio’s appeal to end the “blame culture.” He observed that Nagaland’s society often tends to assign fault to leaders, groups, or institutions instead of reflecting on collective roles.
Furthermore, he said blame diverts energy from solution-building. As a result, development and reconciliation suffer. CM Rio urged especially the younger generation to rise above negativity and contribute positively to social and political discourse.
Youth role stressed at the 70th AKM meet
Addressing the All Khulumi Youth Organisation (AKM), Rio highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping Nagaland’s direction. He said young people must act as bridges between generations rather than amplifiers of division.
Moreover, Rio encouraged youths to engage with history, understand ongoing negotiations, and avoid misinformation. At the 70th AKM meet, he stressed that informed participation strengthens democracy and community cohesion.
Understanding complexities of the political process
CM Rio noted that the Naga political issue involves multiple stakeholders and sensitive negotiations. Simplifying the issue or reducing it to accusations, he said, does not reflect its complexity.
Therefore, at the 70th AKM meet, he appealed for patience and realistic expectations. He added that political dialogue requires time, trust, and mutual respect. Abrupt conclusions or hostile rhetoric, he warned, could derail progress.
Unity and responsibility emphasised
Another major theme at the 70th AKM meet was unity. Rio said Nagas share common history, culture, and aspirations, which should outweigh internal differences. He urged organisations to act responsibly and avoid actions that deepen divisions.
Additionally, he reminded the audience that unity does not mean uniformity. Healthy debate, he said, must exist within a framework of respect. Thus, responsibility must guide freedom of expression.
Development linked with peace
CM Rio also linked development with peace and stability. He said political uncertainty affects economic growth, employment, and social welfare. Therefore, resolving issues through dialogue benefits every section of society.
At the 70th AKM meet, he urged civil society groups to support initiatives that promote harmony. According to him, peace creates an environment where education, healthcare, and infrastructure can flourish.
AKM’s role in social cohesion
Leaders present at the 70th AKM meet acknowledged the organisation’s role in community engagement. The AKM, they said, has the potential to influence public opinion positively and encourage dialogue at the grassroots level.
CM Rio encouraged the organisation to continue promoting awareness, unity, and responsible citizenship. He said youth bodies can help counter rumours and foster understanding during sensitive political phases.
Message of hope and collective action
Despite challenges, Rio struck a hopeful note. He said Nagaland has endured hardship but also shown resilience. At the 70th AKM meet, he reiterated that collective action rooted in trust can overcome long-standing issues.
He urged people to focus on what unites them rather than what divides them. According to Rio, progress depends on cooperation among leaders, organisations, and citizens.
Way forward after the 70th AKM meet
The Chief Minister’s address at the 70th AKM meet set a reflective tone for future discussions. By calling for an end to blame culture and urging maturity in political engagement, Rio sought to redirect public discourse.
Overall, the 70th AKM meet served as a reminder that the Naga political issue cannot be resolved through accusation or impatience. Instead, unity, understanding, and shared responsibility remain essential for moving forward toward lasting peace and stability.
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