The Mokokchung District Congress Committee held its Candidature Declaration Cum Campaign Kick-off Program of S Supongmeren, the Indian National Congress (INC) and Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) Consensus Candidate for the 18th Lok Sabha Election 2024 at Town Hall, Mokokchung. The event witnessed Supongmeren Jamir vocalizing his fervent stance on the critical issues facing Nagaland and the nation.

In a stirring address, Supongmeren Jamir emphasized the transcendence of party politics in the forthcoming election, asserting that the battleground is not merely political but entrenched in matters of faith and ideology. He emphasized the significance of unity among church leaders and pastors, portraying them as custodians safeguarding the beliefs of the believers, amidst growing threats to customs and traditions.

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Jamir stated his concerns over the encroachment upon Nagaland’s autonomy, attributing it to the control exerted by higher authorities, particularly the BJP-led central government. He decried the imposition of directives from Delhi, lamenting the state’s 60 elected representatives under its control.

Jamir said we have chosen 60 MLAs to serve the people of Nagaland. The 60 MLAs are not at fault; they are good and want to serve the people. However, the PDA opposition-less government of the state is under the control of high authorities, with the BJP controlling from Delhi.

Jamir emphasized that being a national party and ruling at the centre, the BJP’s directives cannot be evaded. He stressed showing love to the 60 MLAs, stating, “It is our duty to rescue them.” He expressed concern, saying, “Nagaland is burning; our customs and religion are being threatened.” He questioned, “Who will save us, the Christians?”

Jamir urged the 60 MLAs to ensure free and fair elections if they genuinely care for the Nagas. He emphasized, “The 60 MLAs should come forward and allow freedom for all Nagas to cast their votes on April 19th.” He cautioned against controlling polling stations or public votes, adding, “Imposing RSS BJP activities on us and insisting citizens comply will jeopardize democracy and fair elections.”

The Congress candidate did not shy away from addressing contentious issues such as the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, 2024, which he vehemently criticized for its purported infringement upon religious freedoms, particularly targeting Christians. He condemned similar measures in Manipur, alleging a systematic erosion of religious holidays and practices.

Throughout his discourse, Jamir rallied for the protection of secularism, portraying it as the cornerstone of a pluralistic society. He implored citizens to exercise their franchise judiciously positioning himself as committed to stand for minority rights and traditions.

Furthermore, Jamir outlined the Congress plans to implement various schemes and polices for the upliftment of the people such as: giving Rs 1 lakh per year per woman in the BPL category; 50 per cent job reservation for women in both centre and state; enhancement of salary for the Anganwadi workers; job creation; earmark INR 5000 crores to be distributed state-wise for students’ education and promotion of entrepreneurship; initiate health insurance and pension schemes for gig workers such as taxi drivers and online delivery persons; revival of Old Pension Scheme; revival of Old Ration instead Ration money for the security personnel, etc.

Jamir stated that the upcoming Lok Sabha election will determine Nagaland’s Christian population’s strength, emphasizing the importance of the voting day to safeguard their religion. He commended the Congress’ efforts to protect religious interests and stressed the need to establish secularism in the state and the nation, urging public engagement.

Jamir expressed concerns about the swift implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, citing past agendas such as the Ram Temple and Citizenship Amendment Bill, if Prime Minister Narendra Modi were to be voted to power again. He called upon Christians to unite and emphasized the moral duty of churches to stand against the government, lamenting the lack of leadership in this regard.

Glimpses from the Declaration Cum Campaign Kickoff Program of Shri. S Supongmeren Jamir, INC & INDIA Consensus Candidate for the 18th Lok Sabha Elections, at Mokokchung. pic.twitter.com/2Y4bAwRgId

— Nagaland Congress (@INCNagaland) April 6, 2024

Earlier, short speeches were delivered by ex-MLA Toshipokba, NPCC Mokokchung Incharge, S Moa Imchen, NPCC Public Grievances Department, Co-Chairman, Meshenlo Kath, NPCC Secretary, Imkongmeren Jamir and Imli Jamir.The programme was chaired by DCC Vice-President, Lanusanen and welcome note was said by DCC President, Watimongba Aier while God’s presence was invoked by Baptist Church Pastor, Teyalo Seb.

After this event, Supongmeren Jamir met with the Ao Senden, Watsü Mungdang and the Ao Students’ Conference.