DIMAPUR, JANUARY 25 (MExN): The Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) has appealed to the Joint Co-ordination Committee (JCC) and various tribe organizations opposing the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) Elections to reconsider their stand and allow peaceful conduct of elections.
A press note from the NMA President, Abeiu Meru and Secretary, Lochumbeni Humtsoe termed it “unfortunate” that the issue of women reservation in Municipal Election has been “misinterpreted.” “We are aggrieved by the use of force, threats of banishment and ex-communication, including women candidates and forced withdrawal even after filling of nominations. Such use of force in a civilized society is condemnable,” the NMA said.
It noted that the Joint Action Committee on Women Reservation, which was formed with leaders of NMA, ENWO, Watsu Mungdang, NWHD, and TWO “demands our constitutional rights as equal citizens as human beings under the constitution and are not confronting or challenging men.”
It therefore urged all tribe organizations to ensure that “we respect each other and promote a culture of respect for the rule of law and a sense of tolerance for diverse and opposing views.”
The NMA also appealed to various organizations to ensure the participation of citizens in casting their votes and to extend full co-operation with the State government for smooth conduct of the ULB polls with women reservation in the state.
