KOHIMA: The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) has temporarily suspended the “public emergency” declared in six districts of Eastern Nagaland since February 5.
The decision was taken during the ENPO’s Central Executive Council (CEC) meeting held recently at its headquarters in Tuensang.
A notification from the ENPO stated that the suspension is a “significant measure aimed at fostering mutual understanding and pursuing a peaceful resolution” concerning the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) by the Centre.
The ENPO, however, emphasised that the suspension is “subject to review under compelling circumstances”.
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The ENPO also addressed the issue of nominees in the urban local bodies (ULBs), clarifying that the matter is under discussion because an election had taken place.
However, Eastern Nagaland did not participate in the election.
The ENPO asserted, “Simply put, no election means no nominees,” linking this stance to the Chenmoho resolution passed on February 23.
It is noteworthy that the recently concluded civic polls on June 26 were not held in the six districts of Eastern Nagaland following a general abstention call by the ENPO based on the Chenmoho resolution.
This resolution, adopted at Chenmoho village on February 23, resolved to abstain from participation in both Central, state and urban body elections until the issue of the Frontier Nagaland Territory is addressed.
Earlier on July 5, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s hinted at providing “limited grants” to the districts for urban development after their boycott of the civic polls.
Rio mentioned the possibility of “some grants” for urban development in the six districts but noted that these might not fully meet the districts’ expectations.
The ENPO, an apex body of eight tribes of the region – Chang, Khianiungan, Konyak, Phom, Sangtam, Tikhir, Yimkhiung and also Sumi, has been protesting against the non-fulfilment of the creation of FNT as “promised” by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on December 7, 2023.
