KOHIMA, OCTOBER 8 (MExN): The Association of Kohima Municipal Ward Presidents (AKMWP) has raised concerns regarding the interpretation of "ward committees" in a recent cabinet decision related to the Anti-Defection Law for municipal elections.
The issue was highlighted in a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, referencing a cabinet meeting held on July 11, 2024.
In their communication, AKMWP President Thejao Sekhose referred to a letter from the Home Department, dated August 13, 2024, wherein it was mentioned/decided “that in case of any other bodies duplicating functions of elected councillors such as town GBs/ward committees, the department should initiate necessary action to disband/phase out such bodies."
Sekhose expressed that the term "ward committees" is vague and could encompass various non-profit and non-governmental organizations operating within the jurisdiction of urban local bodies (ULBs).
Sekhose emphasized that the ward and town councils were formed as non-profit, non-governmental organizations and are duly registered with the Registrar of Societies. These councils were established by the citizens of their respective wards for the overall development and welfare of the community and were not appointed by the Nagaland Government or any other authority.
In light of these points, the AKMWP has requested urgent clarification from the government regarding the term "ward committees" as mentioned in the cabinet's July 11 decision.
