Dimapur: The NSCN-IM has strongly objected to the decision of the government to hold elections to the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) in Nagaland on May 16.

Giving its reasons, the NSCN-IM said in a statement today that Nagas have history and it is the defence of Naga history that Naga political struggle started and “it is the recognition of Naga political issue that 1997 Indo- Naga Ceasefire was signed between the Government of India and National Socialist Council of Nagalim(NSCN) to pave the way for political dialogue”. The NSCN-IM also said that it takes blood, sweat and tears to keep the political struggle going to defend the political identity “as given by God”.

Also read | AFSPA lifted from 4 more police stations amid security improvement in Manipur

The NSCN-IM then asked, “What does it take to give historical importance to May 16?” 
After the declaration of Naga independence on August 14, 1947, Naga Plebiscite was held on May 16, 1951, to reaffirm the sovereign will and aspiration of the Nagas as declared on August 14, 1947 to live as a free and a sovereign nation as ever, said the NSCN-IM. This is an irrevocable solemn vow that defines the Naga people’s political identity as a nation, the NSCN-IM asserted.

Thus, the notification by state election commission, Nagaland, to conduct ULB election on May 16, 2023, is an affront to the Naga national sentiment, said the NSCN-IM. “Such historic and auspicious day that made the Naga history so unique and revered should not be buried to fulfil local electoral process,” the NSCN-IM added.

NNN

Also read | NPF MLA emphasises ‘dire need’ to pursue inclusive solution during 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly