Nagaland awaits Centre’s response on Frontier Territory bill as Rio says state ready but seeks clarity on provisions
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DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday said that Nagaland government has submitted its draft bill on the proposed Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) to the government of India and is awaiting a response, even as discussions continue on how to proceed in the absence of legislative clarity.
Speaking to media persons at Dimapur Airport after arriving to receive Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rio said that the state government is prepared to move forward with the process but requires guidance from the Centre on key legislative provisions.
Referring to a meeting held on March 24 with leaders of Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), Rio said that the latter had urged the government not to delay the matter. The state replied that if no response is received from the Centre and there is pressure to proceed, the bill could be tabled in its present form without legislative provisions.
He added that such provisions could be incorporated later once directives are received from the Centre, an approach that was agreed upon during the meeting.
Also read: Nagaland: FNTA Bill put on hold, sent back for rework
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Rio explained that the state legislature does not have the constitutional authority to delegate its powers, making it necessary to seek clarity from the Centre. He added that the matter has also been referred to the solicitor general, who has indicated similar constraints, and that the Centre will have to work out a solution.
‘The state government is very keen to pass the bill, but we have been asked to wait till the legislative directive comes from the Centre,’ he said.
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On financial matters, Rio said that following discussions with the Union finance minister in connection with the 16th Finance Commission, an alternative mechanism has been introduced under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI). He said that INR 3,880 crore has been provided under the scheme, while additional resources would need to be mobilised by the state.
Responding to queries regarding the absence of top NPF leaders in the ongoing campaign for the Koridang by-election, Rio said that the party has not fielded its candidate and has deployed ministers, MLAs, senior leaders and local supporters to carry out campaigning for the alliance candidate.
On concerns over the proposed installation of an Indian Air Force mountain radar system at Pfutsero, he said that the government would examine the matter, adding that it would study the issue in detail.
The chief minister declined to comment on the boycott of the April 7 meeting by tribal apex bodies on the Foothills Road issue.