Peace still elusive in Nagaland: Rio

Kohima, Dec 12: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has asserted that though there had been substantial improvement in the overall law and order situation, peace in the true sense of the term did not yet prevail in the state.

Speaking as the Chief Guest during the Advent Christmas Celebration for the state government employees at the Secretariat Plaza here yesterday, Mr Rio lamented that despite the state being dominated by peace-loving Christians, the people were still craving for the elusive peace and opined that the various Naga political issues were an obstacle to peace.

''Only when all the political issues are resolved amicably, peace will reign our land,'' he stated.

Pointing out that Christmas was an occasion to celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, Mr Rio conveyed Christmas greetings to the state government employees and appealed to everybody to rededicate themselves and pray for peace, unity and reconciliation amongst the Nagas.

State Chief Secretary Lalhuma, speaking on the occasion, also conveyed Christmas greetings.

UNI