Writes to State Election Commission citing unresolved Frontier Nagaland Territory issue
Following its public declaration on Tuesday about its decision to abstain from participating in the forthcoming elections to the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) has informed the State Election Commission of the same on Wednesday.
In a letter to the State Election Commissioner, the ENPO reiterated its decision taken on March 19 to reaffirm its commitment to the ‘Chenmoho Resolution’. The ENPO had resolved not to participate in any Central and State elections in protest against the delay in creating the Frontier Nagaland Territory, as offered and assured by the Ministry of Home Affairs on December 7, 2023, which was to be settled before the announcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for the Lok Sabha elections.
The ENPO stated in its letter that, despite numerous reminders through letters and mass public rallies, the MHA turned a deaf ear, and the MCC was announced by the ECI. As a result, the Eastern Nagaland populace feels compelled to take this course of action as a means of expressing their collective discontentment.
“It is imperative to underscore that the decision to abstain from participating in any Central and State electoral process is not taken lightly. It reflects the sentiments and aspirations of the Eastern Nagaland people who have tirelessly advocated for our rights and aspirations within the framework of democratic governance,” the letter read.
The ENPO also clarified that its abstention should not be misconstrued as opposition to the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, which includes a 33% seat reservation for women.
Furthermore, the ENPO emphasized that this decision was not intended as an act of defiance against the electoral machinery or the principles of democracy. Rather, it is a principled stance taken within the framework of the Constitution of India aimed at drawing attention to the legitimate grievances and aspirations of the Eastern Nagaland people.
“We remain hopeful that both the Government of India and the Government of Nagaland will heed our concerns and take concrete steps towards addressing the longstanding issue of the Frontier Nagaland Territory. In light of the above, we kindly request the State Election Commissioner, State of Nagaland, to take note of our decision and make necessary arrangements to accommodate our abstention from the upcoming ULB elections in the State,” the letter stated.