Mokokchung, 20 April (MTNews): A day after abstaining from participating in the Lok Sabha polls, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO), Tribal Bodies, Eastern Nagaland Women Organization (ENWO), and Eastern Nagaland Students’ Federation (ENSF), have issued a joint statement on Saturday. Stating that the citizens of Eastern Nagaland have always supported CM Rio’s leadership since DAN-1 to the present, it urged Chief Minister Rio to refrain from imposing any political repercussions on the 20 MLAs and Government servants from the Eastern Nagaland region.
This statement comes in the wake of a mass abstention campaign during the 18th LS election, where 738 polling stations across six districts of Eastern Nagaland remained silent, echoing the discontent and unity of the people.
“Citizens of Eastern Nagaland shall stand behind them in the face of any political adversity,” thee organizations said.
The ENPO and its allied organizations expressed their gratitude to citizens, village authorities, women, political party workers, and volunteers for their commitment to the cause. They also extend appreciation to the Sumi Youth Organization (SYO) and Dimapur Ao Youth Organization (DAYO) for their solidarity during this challenging time.
The ENPO looked forward to continued support from each stakeholder.
“By fostering committed public involvement and cooperation, we can work together to achieve the common objectives and dreams of Eastern Nagaland, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come,” it said.
The ENPO described their abstention from voting as “peaceful resistance over confrontation” to demand recognition of their movement, sending a clear message to those in power that the voices of Eastern Nagaland cannot be ignored or silenced.
“It also displayed that the EN people now stand more united than ever,” it added and assured the citizens that in a quest for justice they will continue to go the extra mile until their voices are heard and their grievances are addressed and their aspirations are realized.
The ENPO further advised all citizens to refrain from passing any negative comments against any leader, individual or group in different social media platforms