The Naga People’s Front (NPF) has expressed concern over the likely impact of proposed delimitation on Nagaland’s parliamentary representation while reiterating its support for women’s reservation in legislatures.
In a statement issued in light of recent parliamentary developments relating to Women’s Reservation and Delimitation, the party said it supports reservation for women in State Assemblies and Parliament, provided it is implemented in a fair and equitable manner.
Highlighting its position, the NPF pointed out that the only two women Members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly at present belong to the party, which it said reflects its commitment to women’s empowerment.
On delimitation, the party referred to reports indicating a possible increase in the strength of the Lok Sabha from 543 to around 813 seats, noting concerns that the redistribution may favour high-population regions. It stated that Nagaland and most North Eastern States, except Assam, are unlikely to see any meaningful increase in representation.
The NPF maintained that Nagaland continues to remain underrepresented in Parliament with only one seat each in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and termed this a continuing democratic imbalance.
The party also expressed concern that, despite being a senior NDA partner, it was neither consulted nor engaged prior to the introduction of the proposals, adding that details were largely known through media reports without clear assurance of increased representation for the State.
Further, the NPF expressed concern over the “silence of the two sitting Members of Parliament from Nagaland” on the issue, stating that it was their responsibility to strongly represent the State’s interests in Parliament.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rights and interests of the Naga people, the party said it would continue to pursue fair and equitable representation at all levels.