Atal, Advani appeal to Naga support for BJP

New Delhi, Feb 28 (UNI) Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Leader of the Opposition L K Advani today asked the people of Nagaland to strengthen the democratic process in the forthcoming state assembly elections on March 5 for it was inextricably linked to peace and development.

In a joint appeal to the voters of the state, the senior leaders said they understood the overwhelming desire among Naga people for a permanent peace with honour, dignity and respect for Naga history and culture. ''It was because of this attitude that a lot of progress was achieved when the NDA regime was in power in the state.'' The BJP was a ''tried and tested'' political party with a proven commitment to ensure a better future for the state, they added.

Stating that peace was a precondition for development and employment avenues and the party was committed to remove poverty, social disparities, regional imbalances and enhance the quality of life of all citizens irrespective of their religious, ethnic or linguistic affiliations.

Our candidates, when elected, will do their utmost to further these objectives and the people should support the party nominees in large numbers, Mr Vajpayee and Advani said.

UNI MCN SYU BST1945