Sections of the society in Nagaland continue to seek a ‘solution’ rather than election, while the Election Commission of India (ECI) is gearing up to ‘deliver election’ in the state.
Concerning the two contradictory issues, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio while speaking to a news channel on the sidelines of an event in Kohima said, “Everybody wants a solution, but the solution to the Naga issues depends on the negotiating parties and not the general public”.
“The public can only exert pressure. The 60 Nagaland legislators are also doing the same as facilitators,” he added.
He also stated that he welcomes and supports the joint statement issued by the NNPGs and the NSCN-IM. However, he said that by boycotting the election, “We cannot cause a constitutional crisis or a law and order issue,” and urged right-thinking citizens to do the right thing.
Meanwhile, when asked about the ENPO’s response to the state government’s request of rethinking their separate state demand, Rio stated that a positive discussion is taking place.
“Discussion is going on, and so far it is positive. Any outcome should be positive,” Rio stated.
Concerning the NDPP-BJP partnership, Rio stated that Assam CM Sarma has intimated that more discussion is required. He also reportedly said that since BJP is a high command party, the NDPP is prepared to accept whatever decision the party takes.
According to sources, Amit Shah is interested in increasing the BJP seats from the current 40: 20 to 36:24 seats.
Rio also stated that he will depart for Delhi in the next day or two.