ULB elections failed people’s interest: Imkong

Changtongya, Jan. 20: Stating that mechanism of governance should reflect on the basic interest of the people, Imkong L Imchen, MLA, on Friday noted that recent notification for Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) elections have failed to reflect on the interest of the people but rather went the other way around.

Imkong L Imchen, former president of the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) and also the president of Ao Senden, said this while addressing the culmination programme of the 67th General Conference of AKM at Changtongya village in Mokokchung district on January 20.

Imchen asserted that Naga civil societies led by Naga Hoho and ENPO including almost all the tribal hohos have voiced resentment against holding the municipal and town council election in the present format as it infringes on the very tenet of Article 371 (A) of the Indian Constitution, especially reference to the provision of Naga Customary practices and its usage.
He said many of the nominations filed under the directive of certain political parties directing not to withdraw their candidatures or else face party disciplinary action tantamount to negation of the democratic principle.

He has termed it unfortunate that Naga public were given to agitate to such an extent, which according to him amounts to personal ego over people’s interest.

In this regard, he said we should know the framers of the Indian Constitution who have given the opportunity to the Naga people in the form of Article 371 (A) especially with reference to practices of traditional and customary law.

He opined that it was not too late on the part of State government to reconsider their decision and work out an amicable decision in regard to ULBs issue. Imkong stressed that our personal ego should never be allowed to play in the way while dealing with people’s interest.

Imkong L Imchen also regretted that Nagas are not learning from one another. He recounted his days in the AKM, wherein in one session the programme was printed both in Ao and English to enable other tribes know the activities of AKM. He was of the opinion that whatever AKM does should be shared to other Nagas, saying in this way it will benefit the greater Naga family. While urging that as an Ao everyone should work for the Aos, he however said it should ensure the common good of all the Nagas.

Coincidentally, it may be mentioned here that the closing session of the AKM was streamed live on social media.

Notable resolutions adopted during the conference included formation of a committee for preservation of land and natural resources in Ao areas and to work in coordination with different organisations for its successful implementation.

It also resolved to assist students preparing for different competitive examinations by opening a coaching centre. AKM also resolved to support Clean Election Campaign for the upcoming general elections. It also resolved that the landowners in Ao areas should not obstruct the construction of roadways but will give ample support towards the same.