Mokokchung, 19 July (MTNews): In a consultative meeting held at the Angami Public Organization (APO) Hall in Kohima today, eight apex tribal hohos of Nagaland have strongly urged the Government of Nagaland to ensure their inclusion and consultation in any decision-making processes or agreements, particularly regarding the demands made by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO).
According to a press release, the decisions were taken among representatives of Ao Senden, Angami Public Organization, Chakhesang Public Organization, Lotha Hoho, Pochury Hoho, Rengma Hoho, Sümi Hoho and Nagaland Zeliang People’s Organization on 19 July in order to prevent “potential unwelcome situations and conflicts” arising from decisions made without their input and consent.
“It is essential that the Government of Nagaland actively seeks the input and consent of the tribal hohos to maintain harmony and avoid any conflicts,” it read.
The statement also stated that the tribal hohos of Nagaland reached out to all Naga groups, requesting them to refrain from rectifying or amending Article 371A of the Indian Constitution, which grants special provisions for the state. “The 8 tribal hohos of Nagaland shall strongly oppose any move to rectify or amend Article 371A,” it stated.
During the meeting, the tribal hohos also maintained their opposition to the implementation of the Nagaland Municipal Act (NMA) 2001 in the state and further reaffirmed “unwavering support for the resolution put forth by the Government of Nagaland to repeal the NMA 2001.”
With regard to the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), they expressed concerns stating that its imposition would have severe negative consequences for tribal and minority communities in India.
“Nagaland possesses well-established customary laws, religious practices, and social traditions specific to the state. Imposing the UCC would directly violate the special status accorded to the people of Nagaland,” the eight tribal hohos stated.
They further went on to say that the UCC would undermine the principle of unity in diversity enshrined in the Indian Constitution, adding that such imposition would also jeopardize religious freedom and cultural rights guaranteed to every Indian citizen.
Asserting that any attempt to impose laws against the will of the people would be “undemocratic and unacceptable,” the 8 tribal hohos of Nagaland vehemently opposed the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in Nagaland.
Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC), Tenyimia Union Nagaland (TUN), and Tenyimia People’s Organization (TPO) also attended the meeting.