KOHIMA: Amidst a declared “public emergency” in Eastern Nagaland, the Eastern Nagaland Legislators Union (ENLU) is poised to convene with interlocutor AK Mishra today, marking a crucial juncture in the ongoing episode surrounding the creation of a Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT).
Today’s meeting assumes significance as it precedes a pivotal engagement with the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), which has been spearheading protests against the perceived delay by the Centre in realizing the formation of FNT, on March 19.
On Sunday, the ENPO snubbed a plea from the ENLU to postpone the scheduled meeting on Tuesday at CKS Hall, Tuensang.
ALSO READ Frontier Territory demand intensifies in Eastern Nagaland; student body calls for urgent meeting
In a letter dated March 16, ENPO President R. Tsapikiu Sangtam conveyed the decision, citing deliberations from the “Eastern Nagaland Public Emergency Control Room” meeting held in Tuensang on Saturday.
The ENPO maintained that despite earlier scheduling conflicts, the proposed meeting would proceed as planned.
However, acknowledging the implications of the ongoing Model Code of Conduct for the Lok Sabha election declared by the Election Commission of India (ECI), ENPO stressed that the criticality of the ENLU’s participation in the upcoming gathering.
The ENPO extended invitations to key stakeholders, including Rajya Sabha MP, 20 elected members of Eastern Nagaland, and representatives from various tribal bodies and organizations.
ALSO READ Eastern Nagaland organisations declare ‘public emergency’ over Frontier Territory delay
Earlier, through a circular issued on March 15 ENPO, tribal bodies, and frontal organisations had committed to adhere to the Chenmoho resolution of February 23.
The resolution categorically states a refusal to participate in any central and state elections until the creation of FNT is formally addressed by the Centre, as previously assured by the Union Home Minister on December 7, 2023.
The circular also highlighted that Eastern Nagaland’s people are determined and warned against any negative consequences of a deadlock. It also clearly stated that ENPO rejects any promises from the Ministry of Home Affairs that depend on actions after the election.
