Credibility question: Acid test for Amit Shah and Neiphiu Rio

New Delhi 

In 2023 --- Nagaland could get a pleasant surprise. After elections, NDPP may merge with the BJP.

Nagaland Page - Aug 1, 2022 

But during voting, people may still vote for 10-12 BJP MLAs and dump more than 30 NDPP candidates. This may be possible if parties such as NPF, NPP and even Congress can play their cards well. 

The August 5 rally could show us some indications. Are some people already nervous ? The huge socio-political impact and the reactions so far to the announcement of the NDPP-BJP alliance so far is on expected lines.

However, at least a very few must have expected a strong reaction from NNPG - which so far has constantly remained committed to an early solution. 

In Nagaland the entire governance concept stands on a peculiar foundation. You need to provide good and effective governance and these are immensely linked to the Naga political issue.

 

Little bit of mishandling could jeopardise the entire apple-cart. Over the years one major limitation has been New Delhi's know all approach. The malady continues unabated though Prime Minister Narendra Modi has tried to pull out Delhi's Babudom from that world of gross inefficiency, mutual admirationand sycophancy.

If today, a pro-Solution umbrella group, NNPG, says "personal ambition" of a few are coming before Naga people's political aspirations -- the matter is serious.
 
It expresses no confidence in Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

Well an elected Chief Minister has the mandate, but Mr Rio will do well to remember that in the past too such allegations (against influential leaders) have done immense harm to Nagaland.  

Importantly, for Chief Minister Rio and even for the centre -- if one leader is 'disliked' so strongly by one group -- chances are that people are convinced of the nexus on the other front.

"Who is NDPP Secretary General Abu Metha? He owes an explanation to the Naga people as to why, at this hour, he desires elections more than Indo-Naga political solutions. What political, historical, social and moral authority has he to attempt a pre-emptive strike on a possible Indo-Naga political solution?," says the NNPG statement.

More than Abu Metha, two other leaders should read these lines more carefully. One of them is Himanta Biswa Sarma - a converted neo-BJP leader. But he hails from the same old Congress which many people know as a symbol of corruption and gross inefficiency.  

Himanta's newfound love for cows and Hinduism cannot wrap this fact under the carpet. 
He would do well to focus on Assam floods. BJP-NDPP alliance stitching is not a NEDA convener's job.  It has to be decided either in Dimapur/Kohima or in Delhi. 

Moreover, now Naga leaders have raised an issue with the central BJP -- what is Himanta's contribution

for Naga people staying in Assam ?

The other person is of course Abu Metha's boss and mentor Neiphiu Rio himself. The above paragraph is

actually directed towards him. 

NNPG is today led by N Kitovi Zhimomi, a native of Ghukiye village under Satakha, 

- who has fought stalwarts like Thuingaleng Muivah and Isak Chishi Swu since the 1980s.

Everyone in NNPG pretty well knows the power of the saying, 'Tease the king's parrot and the king could start singing'.

On the other hand, Amit Shah has put his personal reputation at stake as PM Modi's Home Minister.

If the NNPG now walks out of the peace parleys and with Rio's influence on Muivah and NSCN-IM still

in doubt, we may have a typical 'Rahul Gandhi syndrome' striking the BJP and the central government.

This syndrome is called turning advantages into disadvantages and merits into demerits. 

If anybody is taking NNPG for granted in the peace process that could be erroneous as the umbrella

group would now find it extremely difficult to sustain their 'unity'. 

The good works of RN Ravi should not be allowed to go in waste. The return of Rio to power in 2023 for 

Kitovi Zhomimi and his camp would mean continued 'patronage' of a rival entity, the NSCN-IM. 

This is what has made NNPG furious. What's the strength of this 'nexus' when Rio is unable to convince

the NSCN-IM to come on board for an early solution ?  

I spoke to a few Naga leaders on the recent developments. Here came a loaded statement -- 

"Are they all in power in Kohima the stumbling block to peace and solution? The 60 legislators including Rio  

are facilitators. If so, what makes NNPG angry?"

If all stakeholders come forward and an agreement is inked before August 15 - Shah has hit a goldmine.

For Rio, who in the 1990s harboured great dreams of a prosperous and peaceful Nagaland, is faced

with multiple challenges in 2022. This - sadly - at his age after being the state's chief minister for most part of the last 

two decades.

On July 16, Rio did a spectacular job by anchoring the meeting with a very reasonable and promising statement. 

That good intent today has been marred by the July 26 statement. Of course, he needs the alliance

to ensure the sustainability of NDPP. But a party made of opportunists and left overs from all other parties 

cannot be ideologically strong.

His colleagues are with him because he is in power and in a position of patronage and ensuring

them yet another round of electoral win. But do such election victories help Nagaland?

Even July 26 when Rio was hobnobbing with Himanta and Amit Shah - a few NDPP leaders were in Delhi 

exploring chances of switching over to the saffron party.

Rio might have a few personal compulsions as well.

Time and again, this scribe has volunteered to caution political players that never underestimate the

power of faceless voters. Arrogance and overconfidence beyond a point simply are not palatable to Indian

electorate.

NNPG has read people's pulse well and took a risk in initiating this 'revolt' against the BJP-NDPP alliance.

It's a first but very powerful non-political (not linked to elections) statement - voice of opposition to Rio's leadership.

This exposes the NDPP-led 'opposition-less' government. Amit Shah must have examined all these pros and cons.

True, the future of BJP in Nagaland has been stalled. But more significantly, the alliance today has virtually 

threatened the peace process. 

Democracy and chaos are often synonymous.

ends  

Neglect of north east is displayed in sheer 'donkey-type' ignorance of know all Babus and media house talent pool

 some anecdotes and experience -- 

 Once I met a classic expert...he said he knows northeast...innocently i asked how - the genius said -- I have been to Kishnanganj" -- i said that's in Bihar....the shameless joker said -- "all north east trains go through Kishanganj". 

Donkey syndrome 

.... even in schools we knew where Visakhapatnam or Udaipur was !!.........

that's why journalism is a joke today..... some idiot box channels ....just hand over jobs to kids with 'connected parents' that's delhi's jugadu culture......

'nothing doing tv' is too busy finding faults with Modi....and of course looking for merits in corruption and scams-hit Mamata Banerjee and Rahul Gandhi..... and at times sending talented ones to Oxford !!  this is once again !! 

some know-all anglicized jokers deserve to be sacked honourably....and sent somewhere in some media clubs to discuss 'sickularism' .....

yes ....Oops, Oops ...... they did it again. A boy from Mizoram is again now projected as a boy from Assam. What a gross ignorance !! do tender an apology... that's minimum !!  a big let down for northeast

Forget the blunders !! idiot box is even otherwise known for idiots and idiotic talent pool !!

Here comes the loveliest tweet from 19-year-old Jeremy Lalrinnunga --- yes he hails from Mizoram.....

He tweets: "Lifting three tons over my shoulder wouldn’t have been possible without the strength of my nation backing me. This is gold is just the beginning! 

....Shameful ...... must tender apology that nothing doing TV has to call a Mizoram boy from Assam.... 

nevertheless the 19-year young talent showed his love for India and faith in Indian nationhood by such a lovely tweet.... is sickularism-smitten ndtv irked that Modi will again take the credit for changing the face of Indian sports.... 

whereas their 'khela hobey' means Ghotala and 'heralding' real estate scam ?? 

Our Yuva Shakti is creating history! Congratulations to 

@raltejeremy , who has won a Gold in his very first CWG and has set a phenomenal CWG record as well. At a young age he’s brought immense pride and glory. Best wishes to him for his future endeavours. - PM Modi tweeted

President Droupadi Murmu --- 

Congratulations, Jeremy Lalrinnunga for winning gold in Weightlifting at #CommonwealthGames. Your self-belief despite injury during the event enabled you to create history & inspire millions.Your podium finish has filled Indians with pride. Wishing you more such moments of glory.

Trinamool leader cash-stash scam talks about bigger Indian disease - 'will to give Bribe'

It is a big game-changing moment for the BJP to launch broadside attack and aggressive campaign against Mamata Banerjee on the issue of corruption. Her blatant pro-Muslim tilt in a state which has sizeable Muslim population could also fail as corruption menace is something more dangerous and it is something that affects all.

New Delhi 

Just try out the meaning of the word 'stash' on google and the internet would throw up plenty of explanations and arguments.

One of them says - the verb version of stash was originally a late 1700's criminals' slang word meaning "conceal." It might have come from a combination of 'stow' and 'cache'.

The word 'stow' means to put something away in a particular place until it is needed.

These words and phrases are being discussed and debated these days especially in the context of ED findings in Kolkata.

The well-crafted image of a streetfighter leader's party is shattered today. Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee owes an unconditional apology to say the least.

But we also need to debate how people fell for 'government teachers' jobs' and were willing to cough out huge amounts of bribes.

Who makes payment for these bribes?

People who need these jobs - most of the time prefer the safety net of 'government employment' where once you are in --- there is no looking back and there is no accountability also.

Forget jobs, people make huge payment of bribes even for transfer preferably to home towns.

This syndrome is prevalent even among those in India  who crack UPSC civil service.

I know a family from Uttar Pradesh whose 25-year-old youngster got through the civil service examthis year. But the family is desperate about another wish - "UP mil jaye toh maja aa jae gaa".

Very sad that young people who get opportunities to explore the rest of the country and the worldare prevented from availing the chance.

In most cases, we have people afraid of moving out of their 'comfort zone' and to face chances of failures or afraid of trying. 

Needless to add here, that trying something new and tough is an essential feature of one’s life and a basic rule to survival Mantra.

You cannot learn nor can you achieve anything significant without hard work or without failing.

‘Playing things safe’ is the in-thing in our lives. In January 2021, I witnessed engineers, medicos and M.Pharma qualified candidates appearing for lower-court clerical jobs in Tripura.

Why?

Greed of a government job and greed of an easy life where one does not have to work hard !

 

The 'working class friendly' Marxists have ruled the state for a long time till 2018, but hardly a good 'alternative' job-generating industry was created. This is also a state where a teachers' job scam led to unemployment of 10,023 people.

The BJP government later invited some qualified youngsters to appear an exam, the young people declined.The reasons are not at all convincing. Till last year, the Left kept promising them the jobs if they protestand crate chaos in the state capital.An unwarranted drama was staged at Agartala on Jan 26, 2021. 

In another northeastern state Mizoram, the locals are known as hardworking and pragmatic. They make optimum use of entrepreneurship skills. In contrast, in Nagaland - locals have been preferring easy 'government-jobs'.

The point is Trinamool leader Partha Chatterjee could anchor a scandal of such a scale because people overwhelmingly preferred to give the bribe money.

The bribe givers are also offenders- according to law. But more than that I suppose the the issue is morality.

If the greed malady is not put in check and people do not develop the confidence and culture of seeking jobs and results out of hard work and sincerity - there will be another Partha Chatterjee in the next decade.

ends 

NDPP-BJP tie up is a landmark decision, says Chingwang Konyak ::::::: Angry NNPG blasts BJP, NDPP: Questions Rio’s aide

NDPP-BJP tie up is a landmark decision, says Chingwang 

New Delhi 

NDPP chief Chingwang Konyak on Saturday described the announcement of the fresh alliance between NDPP and the BJP as a "landmark decision" of 2022 which would strengthen federal structures and also play a vital role in resolving the Naga political issue.

NDPP chief Chingwang Konyak

"This is a landmark decision. The most significant part of it is the timing. It will strengthen the federal structure of the Indian constitution and open a totally new chapter in ties between a regional partner and one of its long lasting alliances the BJP," Chingwang told this journalist over phone.

 

Answering questions, he said the focus in the governance between NDPP and BJP has always been the welfare of Naga people and resolution of the political problem.

"By this new agreement and statement issued on July 26 we have renewed our pledge to work more sincerely and with more dedication for the people. The Government of India and the BJP central leadership want to deliver both on good governance and on the political solution. On this, we are just a facilitator. Time and again, our government and all 60 MLAs have pledged to work for peace and solution and we will continue to do that," he said.

To another question, the NDPP president said, "Many people do not understand the importance of alliance. In the process of nation building and especially in the context of the uniqueness of the Naga issue we need such an alliance between a strong and committed regional party and a strong nationalist party like BJP".

"The leadership you see in Delhi is unlike what you all saw in the past. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji is providing visionary governance. Everyone is part of Team India. This only gets strengthened when BJP and NDPP will work as a team," he said.

Asked about some 'unhappiness' in the Nagaland BJP, he said, "All these are part of the political process. 

But in the end what is politics ? We have to go by the larger interest of the society. In 2022, the best political decision is the announcement of this alliance. It is a forward looking move....Slowly everyone will appreciate it".

Asked what is expected of the peace talks and is the Solution coming about soon, he said, "Our party and the Nagaland government headed by Chief Minister Rio are all for it. But it should be inclusive and long lasting. On July 16 a very effective statement was issued on behalf of the parliamentary committee. 

They also underlined the importance of the Framework Agreement signed on August 3, 2015. we are not in a position to go into details but everyone is trying to work for an early solution".

NPF symbol : Cock

ends

 Apprehensive that the NDPP-BJP alliance will ensure the return of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to power and this could jeopardise the peace talks, the umbrella organisation Naga National Political Groups (NNPG) issued a strong statement on Friday.

Ball is in PM's court

In a rather unexpected turn of events, the umbrella organisation of seven Naga rebel groups, the pro-solution NNPG on Friday made a blistering attack on NDPP and BJP for announcing a fresh electoral alliance.

NNPG convener Kitovi

The group headed by flamboyant N. Kitovi Zhimomi, a former close associate of late NSCN leader S.S. Khaplang, in a strongly worded statement lashed out at the ruling dispensation in the state as they fear that the fresh tie up between the saffron party and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s NDPP could further delay or even derail the final peace agreement.

“The Nalin Kohli-Abu Metha declaration is a slap on Nagas,” the working committee said in a statement.

The NNPG was formulated in 2016-17 with the personal interest of the then Nagaland Governor RN Ravi, who was apparently asked by authorities in Delhi to work out a peace formula with Naga rebels operating within the state of Nagaland.

The NSCN-IM essentially has a stronger presence in Naga hill areas of Manipur.

The two leaders had issued a statement on July 26 announcing 40:20 seat share between NDPP and BJP.

Initially for the last two days, there was resentment among the BJP leaders too over the statement and even the party’s floor leader and deputy chief minister Y. Patton had questioned the same saying he was not consulted.

However, on July 28, Patton accepted the party bosses’ diktats and said in a series of tweets that such an alliance will bring in stability.

The NNPG in their statement described BJP leader in-charge Nagaland, Nalin Kohli, as a “typical Indian loudmouth doing his job is a different matter”.

Abu Metha is a trusted lieutenant of Chief Minister Rio and is regarded in Nagaland as a virtual power before the throne. He is also the Secretary General of NDPP.

“If Metha is a Naga by blood, as a General Secretary of the ruling party (NDPP), why did he not take the resolutions of sixty legislators to New Delhi and demand the Govt of India to respect the expressed will and desire of the legislators,” the NNPG statement said.

The NNPG is pro-solution group and has inked Agreed Position in November 2017 and is ostensibly waiting patiently for the final peace pact.

The announcement of the alliance has given the general impression that the final agreement would be deferred yet again and political players would be again involved in electoral games and the good old business of credit seeking and blame giving.

The NNPG said – “Meet BJP Nagaland in-charge (Kohli) who conveniently signed a 40-20 election strategy, pouring cold water on the resolution of sixty legislators of Nagaland. Abu Metha waited all these years to stab the Naga people in the heart with Indian election strategy.”

“He (Metha) has failed to measure the overwhelming desire and demand of Naga people for a political solution. He has taken his jack-of-all-trades, cheap showboating antics and mannerisms a bit too far. Is he playing with fire? He will have to ask himself,” the umbrella organisation sought to caution.

This statement from the NNPG has probably given a new twist to the complex Naga issue and various facets of the negotiations and the peace parleys.

On July 28, Thursday, after Patton issued a press statement and posted tweets in favour of the alliance, it was seen as a major ‘win’ at the battle of wits for the Chief Minister Rio. But this fresh statement from NNPG shows that there is probably more to the complexities of the Naga peace talks.

On July 26, in an unprecedented move Home Minister Amit Shah met Rio and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma (also NEDA convener) and allowed a public statement on continuing the alliance.

An analyst told IANS: “Amit Shah may have different and complex plans to agree to this alliance. He may give rope to Neiphiu Rio to deliver something”.

Is it linked to the stalled Naga peace talks and to bring NSCN-IM back to the negotiating table is anybody’s guess.

Rio was earlier urged by the central government to bring in NSCN-IM and its leader Thuingaleng Muivah on board for signing of a peace pact. The NSCN-IM has over the months since October 2019 stalled the peace process by raking up the bogies of Naga flag and a separate constitution.

The NNPG, however, which had good rapport with former negotiator and Governor R.N. Ravi, had said time and again that a solution pact ought to be inked at the earliest to herald peace.

Modi with Naga veteran S C Jamir 

Other issues could be discussed or taken up in democratic spirit and through a suitable democratic process.

“We want a win-win peace pact and solution for both the Nagas and the Government of India,” NNPG leader Kitovi had told a group of Naga youths and intellectuals last year.

There are a few other facets in the entire NDPP-BJP row.

Nagaland BJP leaders and ministers in the Rio cabinet owe allegiance to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and did not delay in welcoming the alliance. Most of them also fear defeat in their respective assembly segments in the event of contesting without any alliance with the cash-rich and resourceful partner.

“The alliance will prove strong and undisputed with blessings of central leadership & Shri. Neiphiu Rio as the Chief Minister for another term,” tweeted Minister Paiwang Konyak, BJP legislator from Tizit.

Technically, Amit Shah, though a very powerful leader as the Union Home Minister, is not authorized to finalise such a political deal in the absence of a meeting of the Parliamentary Board. Even organisational general secretary B.L. Santhosh and BJP national president J.P. Nadda were not present on the occasion when Shah gave his nod for the alliance.

One source says: “For states like Jammu and Kashmir and Nagaland, often government’s decisions and analyses take precedence. The party will not do anything which may harm the bigger national cause.” All these could imply reference to Naga peace talks.

Rio might have some influence on the NSCN-IM strongman Muivah, it is being presumed.

Importantly, Patton and two other Naga BJP leaders met B L Santhosh in Delhi on July 24 (Sunday) and impressed upon him not to allow the alliance. There is a Tsunami of support for the BJP and the saffron party can come to power on its own, they had argued.

The NNPG statement also cautioned that the peace talk was decidedly a “people’s negotiation” which is why those who put “personal ambition before Naga people’s political aspiration” will have to understand the gravity of their actions.

(Nirendra Dev is a New Delhi-based journalist. He is also author of books, ‘The Talking Guns: North East India’ and ‘Modi to Moditva: An Uncensored Truth’. Views are personal)

IANS 

Link

NDPP-BJP alliance - a blessing in disguise for NPF: Azo

New Delhi/Dimapur 

"Mark my words...this BJP-NDPP alliance is a blessing in disguise for NPF, " senior leader of the regional outfit, K Azo Nienu, asserted on Thursday when asked to comment on the announcement of the alliance between the Lotus party and its regional partner.

"Actually there is nothing new about this alliance between BJP and NDPP there is nothing great about it.....you see the media reaction many leaders in both these parties will be unhappy. So NPF is the answer now," Azo told this journalist over phone.

He maintained that the absence of cohesiveness between key leaders in both BJP and NDPP will frustrate voters and intending candidates. "In the absence of good chemistry people will look for a viable alternative and they will come to us".

Answering a question, he said - "I will not disclose our strategy but we have started traveling and the feedback is very encouraging. In the long run, the Naga voters admire politics of regional sentiment and principles. Such things are missing elsewhere in other parties".

Azo, who replaced former Chief Minister T R Zeliang as legislature party leader after the defection of 21 MLAs, said "Just wait for the real drama to unfold. As elections would come nearer, there will be more chaos and confusion in other camps and all these will help my party".

To another question he said - "I have already been to Tuensang and Mon districts and people have very good opinion about NPF though we were let down by our MLAs. Rural Nagaland voters never appreciate or approve defection and so some people are to face the anguish of the voters".

He said the NPF will prove the prophets of doom wrong and re-emerge much stronger.

"The strong anti incumbency mood against some ministers and MLAs will damage electoral prospects of many and so as the polls will draw nearer, we in NPF are going to have the last laugh".

He also said NPF revival journey will begin from far flung, unreachable and under developed areas.

Ends 

Civic polls Nagaland: SC orders completing poll process by January ::::: "12 years have gone by ....", lamented the Bench

 "12 years have gone by ....", lamented the Bench. 

Whether civic body polls will clash with the timing and related developments vis-a-vis assembly elections due Feb-March 2023 remains to be seen.  

New Delhi 

In a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Nagaland State Election Commission to complete 

the elections of the local bodies and municipalities and declare the results by the end of January 2023.

A Bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and M M Sundresh ordered specifically, "We clearly put to them that the 

election process has to be completed and the results declared before the end of January 2023".

The poll schedule has to be worked out accordingly, the Bench said.

The apex court maintained categorically that - "You cannot begin the election process after January".

The state election panel, however, said it required approval from the state government.

The counsel for the state tried to assure - "We will hold elections….". To this the bench ventilated its anguish and said, "When? In 2026?" .

The apex court yet again remarked disapproving of the much delay in holding civic polls in Nagaland saying - "12 years have gone by, you have to hold elections….", according to sources.

The Supreme Court had recently blasted the Nagaland government for delaying the

implementation of 33 percent women’s reservations in local bodies and called such approaches “really shameful”.

During Friday's hearing (July 29), at one point the court also remarked - 

"You keep on postponing it, how many years have gone by". 

Jotsoma village/Science College, Kohima

The advocate general K N Balgopal said, "24th Nov is the date for publication of the electoral roll. 25th November, if we start the process for conducting elections, it will go upto 25th January".

This was not acceptable to the court.

The Bench almost rebuked stating that it did not want the state government and state election commission to delay things further. 

"....You cannot begin the election process after January", the court was very firm about it.

Advocate General Balgopal requested for more time to complete and declare the results of the elections. 

The matter will come up for next hearing for 'reporting compliance' in the second week of February. 

It may be mentioned that reservation for women in civic bodies had in Nagaland evoked strong opposition 

from sections of the Naga society.

The argument was rather perceived to be 'anti-women' and it was contended that the quota was against customary 

laws that are protected under Article 371(A) of the Constitution. 

The capital Kohima experienced unprecedented violence over the contentious issue.

A number of government buildings including the Kohima Municipal Council office and Zonal centre were set ablaze 

by angry mobs during their violent protest on Feb 3, 2017. 

In fiscal 2017-18, Nagaland reportedly lost Rs 140 crore in grants from the Centre allotted 

to modernize urban infrastructures as the NPF-led state government then 

failed to hold elections to urban local bodies (ULBs).

In the previous hearing on April 12, 2022, the Nagaland state government had, however, informed the court about its 

'new resolve' to hold elections to the urban local bodies as per the 74th Amendment Act of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court had also said that “there is now no impediment to holding of the elections providing for reservation for women”. 

ends 

New Delhi 

Pranay Kumar Verma, presently Ambassador of India to Vietnam, has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh.

Verma, IFS of 1994 cadre, is expected to take up the assignment shortly, the Ministry of External Affairs announced here on Friday.

The MEA also said that Sandeep Arya, IFS also of 1994 batch, and at present posted as 

Additional Secretary in the Ministry will move as the next Ambassador of India to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

ends 

Scars of past and Congress revival journey

New Delhi 

The Congress is desperate for its revival both at the national stage and also in states like Nagaland where its writ ruled the roost once.

In a Facebook post, state unit Congress president Kewekhape Therie has said
"Join Congress, The basis of our fight is justice for all. Together, we can change the land we love".

Very legitimate statement. It has evoked a few reactions too. One very logical remark came from one M Domeh - "Now it's time for Naga people to choose the right leaders and the party".

In an earlier piece for 'Nagaland Page', I had spoken about the Internet "as an exciting invention" -- and also adding, "Angry and suppressed people can now talk to each other. Angry people can tell the rest of the world; why they are angry". 

These are relevant not only for an outfit like Congress in Nagaland. The power of

'whatsapp journalism' has gained currency all the more today in the context of allegations

of funds allocation/diversion displaying narrow domestic walls of tribalism. 

The departments may deny things, but people would believe the papers that got circulated

almost going viral.

One general refrain came from ENPO region that the developmental activities for ENPO 

areas are only in words not in deed or action. 

The Central Nagaland Tribal Council (CNTC) also has stated that the Central Nagaland (that is districts of 

Mokokchung, Wokha and Zunheboto) has been deprived for the last 20 years. 

In fact, "20 years" is a loaded phrase as exactly 20 years back in 2003, Neiphiu Rio first became

Chief Minister and has been in power for most periods since then except his brief spell as the Lok Sabha MP between

May 2014 and Feb 2018 and a few weeks of President's Rule in 2008.

The CNTC has urged the 25 legislators of the region to speak up on this matter.

"....if they cannot fight for the people than they should resign on moral ground". 

 

Former Chief Minister K L Chishi, who also handled the Finance portfolio, now apprehends that the state government 

may land into an 'overdraft' crisis as the state Finance department will be divested of civil deposits .

"The Union Finance ministry has already directed all the Centrally sponsored scheme (CSS) funds to be 

directed and deposited with the concerned departments.

The Nagaland government is, therefore, set to face a huge and unprecedented revenue deficit," Chishi told 'Nagaland

Page'. 

What are the chances of Congress revival at these junctures? 

Frankly, there is no escaping the reality of Nagaland in the year 2022. It is also a fact that

'scars' of Congress regimes for decades are to be seen everywhere.

Chief Minister Rio and several of his colleagues are also products of Congress school.

Therie's challenges grow manifold the moment he is asked, "Did all these not start during Congress

era". 

A number of Congress stalwarts and Therie's former colleagues have left a trail of evidence showing

how the Nagaland polity was once upon a time reduced to a 'fiefdom' based on tribalism and even clanism.

There were allegations of corruption.

And when 'brothers' of a particular group ruled Nagaland - noted journalist M J Akbar (of course who became a Congress

neta and BJP minister later) had famously written -- "payments are made in Nagaland for works

done in heaven".

Once T C K Lotha as Chief Secretary reprimanded officials saying even "paper weights do vanishing

act from our offices. This can perish only if we hit each other with these paper weights".

 

In 2003 Nagaland polls threw up a mixed mandate. Even the BJP - which remained untouchable owing to

socio-religious factors - could pick up seven MLAs including the old war horse from Congress Late Hokishe Sema.

Not to talk of NPF (Rio and even Therie were together), the mandate given to the BJP then essentially meant

rejection of Congress. If it had performed well, Congress would not have lost in the first place and subsequently

would not get marginalised.

In 2018, the Congress had complained about fund crunch and Therie had blamed C P Joshi 

(AICC in-charge) as his party could field only 18 candidates. The score was zero and 2.1 percent vote.

"I don’t think anybody can stand without the support of logistics," Therie had said.

All these not to discourage Congress today. A party like Congress should revive at the earliest in key states like

Nagaland. But there are no plans as of now.

The Congress has remained silent on the fund allocation issue 

pertaining to Tribal Affairs and Minority Affairs ministries so far.

There are hardly any visible incentives for workers and leaders from other parties to join Congress today.

In 2018-19, K L Chishi had joined and also put up a brilliant contest in the Lok Sabha polls. He took the battle

to the rival camp and Neiphiu Rio had to pull up sleeves at the last moment 'especially in Mon and Tuensang' to save 

the day.

But is Chishi still enthusiastic about Congress? Whether Congress has shown him the respect ?

Coming to the power of social media, the alleged discrimination in fund allocation to districts is a bombshell. 

If anyone thought that by making some media persons not to report these could save the day; it is absolutely

wrong advice.

If the kitchen has a few delicious non-veg curries and fish and pork, mere throwing green salads on the floor

cannot conceal those.

Netas and their un-elected advisors and coteries should understand what happened to Congress in Nagaland

or what happened to the Leftists in West Bengal can tomorrow happen to the 60 peace-makers of opposition-less 

dispensation too.

ends  

Naga CM Rio wins crucial round: BJP strongman and 'bitter opponent' Patton endorses BJP-NDPP alliance

New Delhi 

After hours of his much talked about statement that he was 'not consulted' before announcement of continuing with BJP-NDPP alliance, Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton on Thursday made a U-turn saying the fresh tie up will "provide stability & clarity in governance".

IANS story Link

Played his cards well: Smart Move 

"... I appeal to our karyakartas to continue working for the party's growth," he wrote in a series of tweets.

Patton is a BJP strongman and floor leader in the state assembly. His 'u-turn' would bring in relief to the saffron party but more to the Chief Minister Rio and his party, NDPP, who were more than 'desperate' for the alliance.

The 40:20 seat share in favour of NDPP was not palatable to several leaders and probable dissidents in the Nagaland unit of BJP and especially Patton. All these players had expressed confidence that there is now "a Tsunami of support" for the saffron party irrespective of the campaign by detractors on Christianity-Hinduism factor.

"The further strengthening of the BJP-NDPP alliance will provide stability and clarity in governance and ensure swift developments. As we ready ourselves for the election, I appeal to our karyakartas to continue working for the party's growth," Patton tweeted bringing an end to the entire row.

Sources said some amount of persuasion was 'required' to convince Patton to accept the continuing of the alliance.

The BJP-NDPP alliance (exactly 20:40) ratio was a brainchild of the then BJP general secretary Ram Madhav, who is often alleged of having a soft corner for Chief Minister Rio.

Even in 2018 the BJP's strike rate of 12 seats out of 20 it contested was much better (show) than the NDPP though the latter had contested 40 seats and Neiphiu Rio was projected as the chief ministerial face.

The NDPP could manage a modest 18 out of as many as 40 seats it had contested.

The Patton-Rio relationship had gone sour recently when the Chief Minister took away the juicy portfolio of Roads and Bridges from his deputy. In this case also, Patton had protested that he was not informed in advance and the NDPP argument was that it had consulted BJP's Nagaland in-charge Nalin Kohli.

On July 26, in an unprecedented move Home Minister Amit Shah met Rio and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and allowed a public statement on continuing the alliance.

Patton on Wednesday (July 27) accused Nalin Kohli of not consulting the state leaders including him before signing a paper to announce alliance with the existing partner NDPP for February 2023 elections.

An analyst says: "Amit Shah may have different and complex plans to agree to this alliance. He may give rope to Neiphiu Rio to deliver something." Is it linked to the stalled Naga peace talks is anybody's guess.

Rio was earlier urged by the central government to bring in NSCN-IM and its leader Thuingaleng Muivah on board for signing of a peace pact.

Blogger: With Naga friends

As of now the announcement of the alliance is seen as a "pain killer for NDPP" or even a life saving drug.

"But such decisions should not become toxic for the BJP in the Christian-dominated state," the analyst remarked.

The alliance gives a life saving drug to the NDPP whose leadership lately came under attack on various counts including corruption and promoting tribalism.

"A sinking ship called NDPP was being deserted. Last week (July 18) around 40 leaders left NDPP and joined BJP in Mon district. The alliance was announced by total disregard to the opinion and views of hundreds of BJP karyakartas.

Local BJP leaders feel the goodwill in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi should be used to form a BJP government in the state," one leader remarked on the condition of anonymity.

"Ours is a democratic party but with a centralised mechanism and the party is always right," the leader said.

There are a few other facets in the entire NDPP-BJP row.

Nagaland BJP leaders and ministers in the Rio cabinet owe allegiance to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and did not delay in welcoming the alliance. Most of them also fear defeat in their respective assembly segments in the event of contesting without any alliance with the cash-rich and otherwise resourceful partner.

"The alliance will prove strong and undisputed with blessings of central leadership & Shri. Neiphiu Rio as the Chief Minister for another term," tweeted Minister Paiwang Konyak, BJP legislator from Tizit.

BJP state unit president Temjen Imna Along, also an alleged 'Rio loyalist', also wasted no time to state that he "wholeheartedly welcomed the decision of the central leaders".

Technically, Shah though a very powerful leader as the Union Home Minister is not authorized to finalise such a political deal in the absence of a meeting of the Parliamentary Board.

Even organisational general secretary B.L. Santhosh and BJP national president J.P. Nadda were not present on the occasion when Shah gave his nod for the alliance.

One source says: "For states like Jammu and Kashmir and Nagaland, often government's decisions and analyses take precedence. The party will not do anything which may harm the bigger national cause." All these could imply reference to Naga peace talks.

Rio might have some influence on the NSCN-IM strongman Muivah, it is being presumed.

Shah with Jamir - a known Rio mentor and critic

Importantly, Patton and two other Naga BJP leaders met B L Santhosh in Delhi on July 24 (Sunday) and impressed upon him not to allow the alliance.

The argument was that the general mood in Nagaland was "overwhelmingly" in favour of the BJP and several leaders from other parties including NDPP were keen to join the saffron party.

Santhosh reportedly did not say 'no' to these Naga leaders. So far, Santhosh has not endorsed or at least did not tweet anything on the announcement of the alliance.

An influential Naga body, the Naga People's Action Committee on July 28 announced organising a rally demanding an early solution to the Naga issue.

Hence, it might be the call of the country's Home Minister and not Shah as a BJP leader.

Resolving the Naga political problem will certainly add a feather to Prime Minister Modi's cap. Shah as a die-hard Modi man and a shrewd operator must be just doing his job.

(Nirendra Dev is a New Delhi-based journalist. He is also author of books, 'The Talking Guns: North East India' and 'Modi to Moditva: An Uncensored Truth'. Views are personal)

Source: IANS

Patton: Pragmatic 'U-turn' 

Now, Patton makes U-turn, says BJP-NDPP ties will bring stability :: Deal a 'pain killer for Rio camp'

New Delhi/Dimapur:: July 28 

After hours of his much talked about statement that he was 'not consulted' before announcement of continuing with BJP-NDPP alliance, deputy chief minister Y Patton on Thursday made a U-turn saying the fresh tie up will "provide stability & clarity in governance".

"...I appeal to our karyakartas to continue working for the party's growth," he wrote in a series of tweets.

"The further strengthening of BJP-NDPP alliance will provide stability & clarity in governance and ensure swift  developments. As we ready ourselves for the election, I appeal to our karyakartas to continue working for the party's growth".

"The decision of @BJP4Nagaland & @NDPPofficial to jointly contest the forthcoming assembly election is made keeping 

in mind the best interest of the people and the long-term vision of the party by our Central Leaders and we all need to work together and put up a united front," he said. 

"What sets @BJP4India  apart and makes it the great organisation, is the zeal of each member of the BJP to work towards serving the people & we all welcome the decision & have our utmost trust in the wisdom of our Central Leaders".

File snap: Naga wrestlers in Delhi 2021

BJP's organisational general secretary B L Santhosh yet to endorse ties : Amit Shah not authorized yet he took a decision

New Delhi 

Rebellion had surfaced in the Nagaland unit of BJP on July 27 and for the time being the target of attack or the fall guy is saffron party's state in-charge Nalin Kohli.

BJP floor leader in the state assembly and Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, a known opponent of Chief Minister and NDPP leader Neiphiu Rio, on Wednesday charged Nalin Kohli with not consulting the state leaders before signing a paper to announce alliance with the existing partner NDPP for Feb 2023 elections.

Mild rebellion: Patton

Camping in Delhi and having met important leaders in the last few days, Patton now says that he "will go to Nagaland at the earliest and need to have a discussion with BJP karyakartas". 

The 40:20 seat share alliance actually helps NDPP more than the BJP. 

An analyst says, "Amit Shah may have different and complex plans to agree to this alliance. He may give rope to Neiphiu Rio to deliver something. As of now it is a pain killer for NDPP or even a life saving drug. But such decisions should not become toxic for the BJP in the Christian-dominated state".

 

Patton is opposed to the 40:20 seat share announced by Nalin Kohli in a joint statement with a junior NDPP leader wherein the Lotus party is to contest only 20 seats leaving the remaining 40 to the regional partner.

“I have not been consulted ....Nalin Kohli as is in charge of Nagaland could have consulted us and BJP workers of Nagaland," he said. 

However, he maintained, "It is up to central leaders to decide whether this is final or needs further discussions". 

Another source confirmed that Patton is not alone and "many workers and leaders are displeased" at the announcement of the alliance which virtually stalls 'further growth' of the BJP in Nagaland.

The alliance gives a life saving drug to NDPP whose leadership is under attack on various counts including corruption and promoting tribalism".

"A sinking ship called NDPP was being deserted. Last week around 40 leaders left NDPP and joined BJP in Mon district and the alliance was announced by total disregard to the opinion and views of hundreds of BJP karyakartas," one leader told 'Nagaland Page' on the condition of anonymity.

Patton's statement would give a mild shock to the NDPP camp and those in Nagaland BJP who still owe allegiance to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

"The alliance will prove strong and undisputed with blessings of central leadership & Shri. Neiphiu Rio as the Chief Minister for another term," tweeted Minister Paiwang Konyak, BJP legislator from Tizit.

BJP state unit president Temjen Imna Along, also an alleged 'Rio loyalist', also wasted no time to state that he "wholeheartedly welcomed the decision of the central leaders".

Worse part was perhaps played by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who is also NEDA convener, who tweeted the joint statement saying this alliance was decided at a meeting between Chief Minister Rio, himself (Himanta)
and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Technically, Shah though very powerful leader as the Union Home Minister is not authorized to finalise such a political deal in the absence of a meeting of the Parliamentary Board or for that matter even organisational general secretary B L Santhosh and BJP national president J P Nadda were not present on the occasion. 

Importantly, Patton and two other leaders met Santhosh in Delhi on July 24 (Sunday) and impressed upon him not to allow the alliance as "general mood in Nagaland was overwhelmingly in favour of the BJP and several leaders from other parties were keen to join the party". 

The mood in the room was "always going with the same party for alliance is not necessary".

Santhosh has so far not endorsed or at least did not tweet anything on the announcement of the alliance.

ends