Dimapur, June 27 (MExN): Maintaining that the Election Commission of India “seeking reply” from Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on his chairing both the Nagaland Bamboo Mission and State Sports Council vis-à-vis office of profit, the State NPF asserted that Rio is well ‘protected’ courtesy a clause in the Constitution. However ‘doubts’ were cast on the “fate” of Opposition Congress leader I Imkong.
“Attention may be drawn to Clause 8 of the Schedule of the Nagaland State Legislature members (Removal of Disqualification) Act 1964 (Nagaland Act No. 1 of 1964) which states, “the office of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Vice Chairman or Member or member of any committee, board or authority appointed by the Government of India or the Government of any state specified in the First Schedule of the Constitution” NPF Press Secretary R Paphino stated. “The standing law itself is clear and sufficient to accrue protection of the Chief Minister” the statement added although no elaboration was given how the quoted clause in any way implied protection.
On the contrary, the NPF expressed ‘doubts’ on the position of Congress leader of Opposition I Imkong. “Despite the nagging developments, the Chief Minister’s position is safe and sound. However, we have reservation and doubt about the position of the Leader of Opposition whose fate is in peril as his status is not covered for protection under any law or act” the NPF stated. The party also claimed that lodging complaint and furnishing subsequent reply is a normal procedure “being observed throughout the country”.
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