PFUTSERO, SEPTEMBER 27 (MExN): The Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) has reiterated its stance on Naga politics based on the principles of the Naga National Council and on the premise of the 1951 plebiscite—it affirmed that any negotiated settlement “differing with this principle” would render the outcome “futile,” and the consent of all stakeholders must be taken to make the talks “inclusive” in order for an “honorable and acceptable” outcome. This was stated by the CPO following its executive meeting held on September 26 in Pfutsero where several resolutions were made.
Expressing concern at the present turn of events regarding the Naga Hoho, the CPO called upon all members for “shared understanding and dialogue to make the common Naga platform strong and vibrant.”
As a founding member of the Naga Hoho, the CPO resolved to “uphold” the Naga Hoho. “No matter what shortcomings the Naga Hoho may have should not deter our active participation and involvement. Rather remedial measures to fulfill any shortcomings of the Naga Hoho should be appropriated to make the Naga Hoho strong and vibrant,” it advised. Regarding the Rongmei ‘tribe recognition’ issue, a press statement from the CPO stated that “such a status does not befit the community as they are a recognized tribe in Manipur and they don’t have ancestral land in Nagaland.” However, the CPO is “not inimical to according Indigenous inhabitant to the Rongmeis fulfilling the notification dated 28/04/1977 by the Government of Nagaland.” It asked the State Cabinet to review its decisions of July 23, 2012 and thereafter in the greater interest of peaceful coexistence of Nagas.
Further, the CPO urged the Government to review the “anomalies and loopholes” in the Nagaland Municipal Act 2003, which provides 33% reservation for women. The Cabinet decision to enforce the Act, it stated, is “against the interest voiced by various civil societies.”
