The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) has reached out to the Election Commission of India (ECI) with a clear message: they will be abstaining from participating in the upcoming general elections. In a letter addressed to the Chief Election Commissioner, the ENPO explained its stance and requested the necessary arrangements to accommodate this abstention.
The ENPO represents the people of Eastern Nagaland, who, under its banner, reaffirmed their commitment to the “Chenmoho Resolution” on March 19, 2024. This resolution, which was passed on February 23, 2024, solidifies their decision not to take part in any central or state elections. This decision stems from what they perceive as a failure to settle the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT), which was offered and assured by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on December 7, 2023.
According to the ENPO, the MHA had given assurances on December 7 to resolve the issue of the FNT before the announcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections by the ECI. Despite repeated reminders through letters and mass public rallies, the MHA did not act on its assurances, and the MCC was eventually announced by the ECI.
Feeling ignored and left with no choice, the Eastern Nagaland populace decided to abstain from participating in the electoral process. The ENPO emphasized that this decision was not made lightly. It reflects the sentiments and aspirations of the people of Eastern Nagaland, who have consistently advocated for their rights and aspirations within the framework of democratic governance.
“The ‘Chenmoho Resolution’ represents a unanimous consensus among the Eastern Nagaland populace, and we reiterate our absolute, unconditional, unwavering commitment to uphold it,” the ENPO stated firmly.
Importantly, the ENPO clarified that their decision to abstain from polls was not meant as an act of defiance against the electoral machinery or the principles of democracy. Instead, it was a principled stance taken within the framework of the Constitution of India. This stance is aimed at drawing attention to the legitimate grievances and aspirations of the Eastern Nagaland people.
In their letter to the ECI, the ENPO requested the Commission, through the Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer, to acknowledge their decision and make the necessary arrangements to accommodate their abstention from the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. They expressed hope that the Government of India would heed their concerns and take concrete steps towards addressing the longstanding issue of the FNT.
This move by the ENPO highlights the complexities of governance and the diverse aspirations within India’s democratic framework. It underscores the importance of addressing regional issues and ensuring that the voices of all communities are heard and respected within the democratic process.
