Armed people have tried to undermine peace in Nagaland: Governor

Nagaland Governor Ravindra Narayana Ravi on Sunday said that "some people with guns" have tried to undermine the historical reality of Nagaland and its unique constitutional status.

Joining the rest of the nation, the mountainous northeastern state celebrated the nation's 71st Republic Day with the Governor unfurling the national flag at the state civil secretariat plaza and taking the salute at the parade.

"Power through the barrel of a gun has been proved to be a failed ideology," said Ravi, who is also the Centre's interlocutor for the Naga peace talks.

He said: "We should resolve our differences through peaceful dialogue, not under the shadow of guns. Guns and corruption, are twin evils and have taken a toll on the Naga people."

The Governor also said that while the rest of the country, including India's neighbours along the northeast are marching towards greater prosperity, the people in Nagaland, are still craving for basic needs like motorable roads, functioning healthcare and schools with qualified teachers.

He called for the building of a "new Nagaland".

"The Nagaland government is prioritising improving the condition of the roads, creating good health and education infrastructure, livelihood projects, information technology networks and a conducive eco-system for innovation and entrepreneurship," Ravi said.

Later, he presented the Governor's Commendation Certificate and the Union Home Minister's Medal for excellence in police training in indoor and outdoor categories to the awardees.

Besides the cultural presentation, a Taekwondo drill display, Bhangra dance, contemporary dance and fusion music featured in the celebrations here.

( With inputs from IANS )