Kohima, June 27: A crucial Consultative Meeting has been scheduled for June 30 in Kohima to discuss the proposed constitution of an Autonomous Council for the eastern districts of Nagaland. The meeting aims to explore the provisions put forth by the Government of India and gather input from various stakeholders.
This development comes after the Ministry of Home Affairs formed a panel to engage in talks with the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), which has been advocating for a separate state of Eastern Nagaland. With key government officials and representatives set to attend, the meeting holds significant importance for the region’s future.
The meeting, as per the government notice, will be held on June 30 at 01:30 PM at the State Banquet Hall in Kohima. It will see the presence of eminent personalities, including the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Ministers, the Speaker, all Ministers, the MP Lok Sabha, the MP Rajya Sabha, and the Chief Secretary.
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Additionally, various organizations have been invited to provide their valuable insights. This gathering underscores the government’s commitment to engage with stakeholders and address the demands and concerns of the region.
The Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) has been persistently advocating for a separate state of Eastern Nagaland. Recognizing the significance of their demands, the Union Home Ministry formed a three-member committee, headed by MHA adviser AK Mishra, to hold talks with ENPO members.
The demand for a separate ‘Frontier Nagaland’ state stems from the ENPO’s desire for greater autonomy and development in the eastern districts. These districts, including Tuensang, Mon, Longleng, Kiphire, Shamator, and Noklak, are home to seven tribes and have distinct cultural and historical backgrounds.
The Union Home Ministry has actively engaged with ENPO leaders to address their concerns. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during his visit to Nagaland, assured ENPO of resolving their issues and emphasized that an agreement would be signed after the assembly elections.
A model code of conduct prevented the immediate signing of the agreement, but Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the rights and development of the Naga people. The withdrawal of the boycott call by ENPO for the February 27 Assembly polls was viewed as a positive step towards resolving the issues and finding a suitable resolution.
The Consultative Meeting on June 30 marks a significant step in the ongoing discussions surrounding the proposed Autonomous Council for the eastern districts of Nagaland. With the participation of key government officials and representatives, the meeting aims to gather perspectives from various stakeholders and further evaluate the demands of ENPO.
The formation of an Autonomous Council holds the potential to address the region’s unique cultural and historical contexts and promote greater autonomy and development. As the government seeks to find a sustainable and inclusive solution, this meeting signifies a vital milestone in shaping the future of Nagaland’s eastern districts.
