Tribal bodies, Nagaland govt at loggerheads on ULB polls

Kohima: The ensuing elections to the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) in Nagaland slated for February 1 have brought the tribal organisations at loggerheads with the state government on the issue of 33 per cent reservation to women.
The State Election Commission had on December 21, 2016 notified that general election to municipal and town councils in the state will be held on February 1 with 33 per cent reservation for women.
The apex body of tribal organisations, Naga Hoho, and Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) had submitted a 15-day ultimatum to the government to revoke its decision.
And as the government stands firm on its decision, the tribal organisations including Angami Public Organisation (APO), Kohima Village Council, and Ao Senden and Sumi Hoho have resolved to oppose the government decision while Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) and other bodies are to discuss the issue on Tuesday.
Angami  Public Organisation, which has its jurisdiction in Kohima and Dimapur district, the two major municipal councils in the state, in a statement accused the government of announcing the elections “in utter disregard of the wishes of the Naga people”.  (PTI)