Kohima, April 25: The new Assembly complex, housing the hall, secretariat and MLA hostel was inaugurated today by Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio.

Addressing the gathering, Rio acknowledged the contribution of all Speakers and MLAs — past and present — and also appreciated the role of agencies involved in making the dream project a reality.

Expressing hope that the upgrade in infrastructure would lead to better performance of the legislators both inside and outside the House, Rio said: “May it become a hallowed institution from where the true voices of the people will be expressed and heard — from where the state will draw inspiration for speedy development.”

Reminding the gathering that Nagaland Assembly had an enviable record of holding debates in the true spirit of parliamentary democracy, Rio hoped that the House would continue to be the torchbearer in upholding the high ideals of democracy.

Delivering the welcome address, Speaker Kiyaneilie Peseyie termed the occasion as a “historic event.” “The new complex is a milestone in the development of the state which will be admired by people of the state and also those from outside,” he said. “It is a matter of privilege and pride for all of us and posterity will surely feel proud of what we have achieved today.”

Peseyie said the shifting of the Assembly secretariat would start soon and the MLAs would move to the new “home” after the 10th Northeast Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference, scheduled to be held at the new complex from May 3 to 6. Opposition leader I. Imkong termed the event “a red letter day” for the people of Nagaland.

“We should remember all the past and present leaders but for whose contribution the project wouldn’t have seen the light of the day,” he said.

Stating that in a democratic society the Assembly secretariat plays a crucial role, Imkong expressed the hope that members of the House would henceforth ensure the welfare of the people of Nagaland with renewed vigour.

Engineer-in-chief, public works department, N. Chielie Angami, said the new complex would also house quarters for staff and officers.

He said the present site, spreading over 103 acres of land was selected in 1988 and acquired in 1991. The detailed project report was prepared and approved by the government in April 1994.

Earlier, the chief secretary, who chaired the programme, said the inauguration of the new complex was possible because of efforts of people from a cross-section of society including Rio.

The Nagaland Chamber Choir presented a special number while state chaplain Rev. Deo Vihienuo offered prayers. Legislators, former MPs and ministers, members of Kohima Municipal Council, NGOs and staff of the secretariat attended the programme.