Y Patton however stated that he along with all the BJP legislators assured to stand firm to the “pre-poll” alliance commitments with NDPP
By Imna Longchar, TFM Nagaland Correspondent
Two days after relieving him from the charge of Road and Bridges department, Nagaland deputy chief minister, Y Patton, who also holds the charge of home department, on Monday declined the offer in-charge of the land resources department allocated by chief minister, Neiphiu Rio.
Acknowledging the trust and confidence reposed on him by allotting the portfolio of land resources department, Patton in a letter, extended his gratitude towards Neiphiu Rio, for providing “visionary leadership” as the chief minister of Nagaland in the present coalition government.
Citing that it is an “honour and a great privilege” to serve the people as a member in the council of ministers headed by Rio, and looking forward to work in close coordination till “such time” he (Patton) enjoy the confidence of the CM and the BJP party, Patton while respecting the recent exercise of prerogative power in relieving and re-allotment of portfolios, however with regret, said he has to “gracefully decline and refuse to accept” the new portfolio allotted.
He supplemented it by stating that he “stand contended” working together even without the additional assignment, moreover, the said portfolio was already assigned to his fellow BJP legislator who has been discharging his duties and responsibilities diligently with no adverse record thus having the confidence in him as the BJP leader.
Y Patton further stated that he along with all the BJP legislators assured to stand firm to the “pre-poll” alliance commitments with NDPP and shall continue to work for the interest of the present coalition government and for the welfare of the people as mandated.