Nagaland Faction Opts Out Of Lok Sabha Elections Due To Demand For Autonomous State

Amidst ongoing tensions and demands for a separate administration, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) persists in its decision to abstain from participating in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Nagaland. The ENPO, representing seven Naga tribes in the region, along with its associated bodies, remains steadfast in its stance until its demand for a distinct administrative unit comprising six districts of Nagaland is met by the central government.

Following an extensive closed-door coordination meeting with 20 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and various other organizations in Tuensang, the ENPO reiterated its boycott of the parliamentary elections scheduled for April 19. The Eastern Nagaland Legislators’ Union, comprised of the 20 MLAs, had previously urged the ENPO to reconsider its decision, to no avail.

The situation in the eastern part of Nagaland, marked by what is described as a “public emergency,” commenced on March 8 and persists. During this period, the ENPO and its affiliated organizations have prohibited any election campaigning activities in the region.

This is not the first time the ENPO has taken such a stance. In the past, the organization, representing the primary Naga body in the six districts, had called for a boycott of the Assembly polls held on February 27, in alignment with their demand for a separate state. However, this call was rescinded following assurances from Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Responding to the ENPO’s demand, the Union Home Ministry established a three-member committee, led by Adviser of Northeast Affairs, A.K. Mishra, to assess the situation. The committee conducted several visits to Nagaland and engaged in discussions with all concerned parties.

In a recent statement, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio disclosed that the state government has recommended to the Centre the establishment of an autonomous region for the people residing in the eastern part of Nagaland. This move reflects ongoing efforts to address the grievances and aspirations of the region’s inhabitants.

As tensions persist and the ENPO remains firm in its demands, the political landscape in Nagaland continues to be shaped by the quest for regional autonomy and administrative restructuring. The outcome of these deliberations will undoubtedly have significant implications for the future governance and stability of the region.