Frontier Nagaland issue: Resolute on not participating in elections, says ENPO

KOHIMA: The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) has reiterated its stand to abstain from participating in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The ENPO has communicated its decision to the election commission of India (ECI) in letter on Monday (April 01).

This influential body from Eastern Nagaland cited Centre’s failure to address its demand for creation of a “Frontier Nagaland Territory” as the reason behind its decision.

The ENPO reiterated its commitment to the Chenmoho Resolution, which emphasizes the establishment of a Frontier Nagaland Territory.

“Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation had on March 20, 2024 reaffirmed its commitment to the Chenmoho Resolution,” the ENPO stated in its letter to the ECI.

The ENPO said: “It was further reaffirmed and resolved not to participate in any central and state elections against the failure to settle the creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory.”

“Despite numerous reminders through letters and mass public rallies, the MHA turned its deaf ear and finally MCC was announced by the ECI - which is why the Eastern Nagaland populace feels compelled to take this course of action as a means of expressing our collective discontentment,” the Eastern Nagaland organisation said.

“It reflects the sentiments and aspirations of the people of Eastern Nagaland who have tirelessly advocated for our rights and aspirations within the framework of democratic governance. The ‘Chenmoho Resolution’ represents a unanimous consensus among the Eastern Nagaland populace, and we reiterate our absolute, unconditional, unwavering commitment to uphold it,” the ENPO added.

“Rather, it is a principled stance taken within the framework of the Constitution of India aimed at drawing attention to the legitimate grievances and aspirations of the Eastern Nagaland people.”

It further said: “We remain hopeful that the government of India will heed to our concerns and take concrete steps towards addressing the longstanding issue of the Frontier Nagaland Territory. In light of the above, we kindly request the Election Commissioner through the State Chief Electoral Officer, state of Nagaland to take note of our decision and make necessary arrangements to accommodate our abstention from the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.”