Naga political settlement top agenda in NPF manifesto

KOHIMA: The election manifesto of the ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) was released by the party president, Shurhozelie Liezietsu, at its central office here on Thursday. The manifesto, which runs into 58 pages, makes the Naga settlement the key issue for the February 23 assembly elections.The NPF goes on to state that it is committed to gifting the people - if voted to power - a "political settlement" which is honourable and acceptable. "This commitment will be fulfilled soon after assuming power," read the manifesto.It added, "The NPF will leave no stone unturned in its endeavour to bring permanent and lasting peace. We believe understanding, reconciliation and unity are vital for peace."On Naga integration, the NPF vowed the people have always aspired to live together as one family and asserted that the NPF will continue to work tirelessly till the people's dreams are realized.The manifesto also talked about the emotional integration of the pan-Naga families. "Our venture in the Manipur assembly elections resulted in four of our candidates winning… we aspire to venture in all areas populated by ethnic and indigenous Nagas."It also said the NPF is providing a platform where all Nagas can come together, thereby paving the way for the integration of the pan-Naga families. "The journey of Naga integration is well under way and the NPF will ensure that all measures to forge understanding, oneness and unity are pursued," the manifesto stated.Regarding illegal immigrants, the NPF said it will take up the issue with the neighbouring states, civil societies and NGOs. It promised to make the ILP (inner line permit) system fully computerized with a statewide data bank and check the misuse of the system by government officers, employees and contractors and initiate steps to detect illegal infiltrators and delete their names from electoral rolls.Global warming, climate change and environmental protection have also found space in the NPF's agenda.