KOHIMA — Emphasising the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party’s (NDPP) commitment to protecting Naga heritage, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday said that the regional party was founded on the principle of safeguarding Naga history, identity, traditions, and culture.
He said that the NDPP, unlike other regional parties, has a direct mandate from the people, as evident in the party’s recent victory in the urban local body (ULB) election.
Addressing a felicitation programme for the party’s elected councillors of ULBs in Kohima district, Rio highlighted the ‘uniqueness of Nagas’, recognised by the British through the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act (BEFR), 1873.
This uniqueness was also reiterated in the 16th Point Agreement and the status and privileges enshrined in Article 371 (A) of the Constitution, which no other state in the country enjoys, he said.
He went on to say that though the Naga political issue still remains unresolved, the government of India also recognised the uniqueness of the Nagas, as declared by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee during his visit to the state.
Draws distinction between NDPP, national parties
In this context, he said that regional parties, such as the NDPP, are vital to upholding this unique status and safeguarding the rights and interests of the people, while criticising those who ‘prefer to be loyal to the high command of central leadership against the regional interests’.
Rio reminded the newly-elected NDPP councillors that their victories exemplified the importance of regional representation and urged them to uphold the party's ideology to safeguard Naga interests.
Addressing the NDPP's Lok Sabha election defeat, Rio noted that the Congress did not conduct any mega campaigns nor set up polling agents in polling stations even on the day of polling.
However, the NDPP as a partner to the BJP, had suffered as a result of the anti-Christian sentiments and activities in Manipur and the passing of the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, 2024, which was opposed by the party.
While respecting the recent election outcomes, Rio drew a clear distinction between the NDPP and national parties like the Congress and BJP, which he characterised as representing Hindu interests. He emphasised the importance of recognising this difference, urging voters to prioritise the NDPP's regional focus on safeguarding Naga identity and rights.
Rio asserted that the Nagas will never compromise their Christian principles for politics and individual relationships and the NDPP stands to protect and safeguard the rights and interests of its people.
‘Privilege comes with responsibility’
The chief minister said that the newly elected councillors, who were elected after a gap of 20 years, are privileged, and reminded them that ‘privilege comes with responsibility.’
Highlighting the state government’s efforts towards conducting the civic polls, he told the councillors to ensure that taxes or income generated within their jurisdictions are utilised locally, along with state grants and funds from the finance commission for development projects.
He particularly emphasised the importance of infrastructure development in Kohima, the state capital, as it reflects Nagaland's progress.
Anti-defection to be incorporated
Further, the chief minister said that the government is exploring the inclusion of anti-defection law within the Municipal Act to enhance stability in the municipal and town councils.
He also said that the government is considering a separate directorate for urban bodies in the state and informed that training on effectively managing municipalities and town councils will be provided to the councillors.
Several dignitaries addressed the gathering, expressing optimism for the future of local governance.
Minister for Horticulture and Women Resource Development, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, commended Chief Minister Rio for holding the ULB election after a two-decade hiatus.
She expressed confidence in the newly elected councillors' ability to take development forward and identify pockets where infrastructure is required. Kruse reminded the councillors of the public's high expectations and encouraged them to serve the people with dedication.
Other speakers, including Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, Advisor of School Education and SCERT, congratulated the councillors and pledged their support in serving the people.
Elected councillors, including Neikhozo Suokhrie and Thenusoü SekhoseYhome, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and vowed to work collaboratively for the betterment of Kohima.
Kekhrienienuo Zumvu, councillor from Chiephobouzu Town Council, acknowledged the government's successful implementation of 33% women's reservation in the ULB election and pledged to work towards development and social justice.