KOHIMA: In a resolute stance against alleged governmental delays and unmet promises, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO) has declared not to partake in any elections until their demand for the creation of the “Frontier Nagaland Territory” (FNT) is met by the Centre.
The decision was taken during a collaborative meeting of the ENPO, tribal bodies, frontal organisations, talk team, and senior leaders convened recently in Chenmoho Village, Mon district.
Highlighting their unwavering stance, ENPO conveyed that they would not yield to any assurances put forth by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), even if they were to materialise post the impending Parliamentary elections.
The decision, unanimously reached, underscores the growing frustration among Eastern Nagaland residents regarding the prolonged uncertainty surrounding their territorial aspirations.
The genesis of this decision traces back to the collective display of public sentiment exhibited during mass rallies held across all seven districts and ADC headquarters within Eastern Nagaland on February 9.
Drawing thousands of participants, these rallies resonated with a singular demand for the FNT and the expeditious signing of the Memorandum of Settlement (MoS).
Following suit, tribal bodies duly submitted a memorandum to the Nagaland governor, reiterating their resolve to chart their own course of action should the sentiments and aspirations of Eastern Nagaland’s populace continue to be disregarded.
They also cautioned against holding the Eastern people accountable for any unrest that might ensue in the absence of a signed MoS prior to the implementation of the election model code of conduct by the Election Commission of India.
The memorandum, further urging immediate action, implored the governor to promptly transmit the report to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, thus highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation.
Speaking candidly to the media on February 15, ENPO had expressed palpable disappointment over the persistent delay in receiving the final draft of the FNT, despite reassurances from Shah.
They underscored that this delay had served as the catalyst for the widespread rallies across Eastern Nagaland, urging the Ministry of Home Affairs to furnish the draft before the Lok Sabha election model code of conduct could be enforced.
