With the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly set to hold its first session on March 20, the possibility of an ‘opposition-less’ government in Nagaland is still unclear although speculations of it are rife.
The political parties with members in the assembly including the NPF, NPP, NCP, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Republican Party of India (Athwale), Janata Dal (United), and Independents have all extended their support to the ruling People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) government of BJP-NDPP; however, the alliance partners are yet to take a final call on the matter.
According to sources, to discuss the possibilities of an opposition-less government, a crucial meeting is scheduled to be held in Kohima at CM Rio’s residence at 5:00 PM on 18 March between the BJP and NDPP.
It was also reported that the BJP high command will take the final call on the matter after the meeting. It is worth noting that so far there are no directives from the BJP high command over the matter in public knowledge.
It may be recalled that Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has recently said that the final decision on acceptance of an opposition-less government will be taken only after proper consultation with the BJP.
However, during his last visit to Delhi, he has said that the oppositionless government was welcome, stating that it will be good for the ‘troubled state of Nagaland’.
Meanwhile, BJP State President Temjem Imna Along has said, “If there is a need for anything like that, our chief minister and the saffron party’s central leaders have to deliberate and decide.”
Therefore, as the crucial 18 March meeting approaches, all eyes will be on the outcome of the meeting and the decision that the BJP high command makes.
It was also reported that Dy Chief Minister Y Patton and State BJP President Minister Temjen Imna Along will be leaving for Delhi after the Assembly Session.