DIMAPUR/KOHIMA, APRIL 25: Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton has declined and refused to accept the new allotment of portfolio given to him, i.e., the Department of Land Resources and said he was content working even without this additional assignment.
In a letter to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Patton expressed appreciation and gratitude for his trust and confidence by allotting the portfolio of Land Resources Department. However, he stated, “I respect the recent exercise of your prerogative power in relieving and re-allotment of portfolios. Nevertheless, with deep sense of regret, it is to inform you that I have to gracefully decline and hereby refuse to accept the new allotment of Portfolio given to me, in-charge the Department of Land Resources as I stand contented working together even without this additional assignment.”
Patton further stated that the above mentioned portfolio was assigned to his fellow BJP Legislator, who has been discharging his duties and responsibilities diligently with no adverse record thus far and he has the confidence in him as the BLP Leader.
Patton, 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 the welfare of our people as mandated.
It may be mentioned that two days back, the Roads & Bridges Department portfolio held by Y Patton was taken away and given to H Chuba Chang.
Patton’s portfolio taken with understanding
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today said that Patton’s portfolio was taken with understanding.
Interacting with media persons at Kohima, Rio said it was done with proper understanding between the BJP and NDPP after consultations with BJP high command.
On Patton refusing to take the new portfolio Land Resources Department, the CM said further discussions would be held on the new assignment.
(Page News Service)
