No blame game, only collective action: Nagaland minister on Assam floods

Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along on August 5 called for a collaborative approach to tackle floods and other natural disasters, saying the two neighbouring states should avoid blaming each other and instead work together to address the crisis.

His remarks come amid the ongoing row over allegations that illegal mining activities in Nagaland contributed to the devastating floods in Assam's Upper Assam districts.

Responding to the controversy, Along said both Nagaland and Assam have suffered extensive damage due to the recent spell of heavy rainfall.

"The Government of Nagaland has taken into consideration whatever the Honourable Chief Minister of Assam has conveyed. We are very sure that both chief ministers are in touch regarding the natural calamities," Along said.

He noted that Nagaland has also witnessed severe destruction, including landslides, washed-away bridges, damaged houses, loss of lives and disruption of livelihoods.

"We cannot blame each other for anything. We have to take collective measures. The Government of Nagaland and the Chief Minister are considering all these issues," he said, adding that the matter is expected to be discussed during the state Cabinet meeting.

His statement comes after organisations in Nagaland, including the Konyak Union, rejected allegations linking mining activities in the state to the floods in Assam.

Asked about the Konyak Union's response denying illegal mining in Mon district, Along said elected representatives should act responsibly and avoid making statements that could inflame public sentiments.

"We are responsible people. We do not make comments here and there. We pray that our friends in Assam will also consider that we are chosen to serve the people and relieve their pain, not blame each other," he said.

"We know how sentiments are hurt. Nagaland chooses to be responsible. We are a small state. We pray for the victims and the people of Assam in every way, and we hope the same for the people of Nagaland," the minister added.

On environmental protection, Along said the Nagaland government remains committed to afforestation and biodiversity conservation.

"The Forest and Environment Department is continuing plantation drives across the state. Logging is almost banned in Nagaland, and trees are used mainly by local communities for their livelihood and essential needs," he said.

He added that the government would continue its efforts to make Nagaland a climate-resilient, environmentally friendly and biodiversity-rich state.