The Naga People’s Front (NPF) has rejected former minister, K Therie’s recent criticism of the party, describing his allegations as “baseless”, “politically motivated” and “misleading,” while reiterating its opposition to any demand for President’s Rule in Nagaland.

In a rejoinder issued by its Press Bureau, the NPF said Nagaland has an elected government with the mandate of the people and argued that President’s Rule under Article 356 cannot be used as a shortcut to achieve a political solution.

It said such a step would not help in building the broad and inclusive understanding that is needed. “Solution cannot be brought by dismissing a popular Government and creating instability,” the NPF said adding, it’s commitment is to “pave way” as and when honourable solution is arrived at.

On the Naga political agreements, the NPF said the State Government is not a signatory to agreements between Naga political groups and the Centre, but has a role as a facilitator in advancing the aspirations of the Naga people.

Rejecting Therie’s allegation that the NPF was acting as a “roadblock” to a solution or seeking electoral gains through links with NSCN(IM), the party termed the charge “false, baseless and defamatory.”

“The Naga issue is much bigger than any party or any election and should not be reduced to electoral politics. NPF wins on people’s trust, not on any faction’s support,” it said.

The NPF said its policy of maintaining closeness with all Naga political groups was intended to bring them together and create a peaceful atmosphere.

The party also questioned Therie’s recent support for former Chief Minister Dr SC Jamir’s position, referring to Therie’s past differences with Jamir. The NPF said it respected senior leaders, including Dr SC Jamir and their contributions but maintained that no individual had a sole claim over the Naga political issue.

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Defending NPF Secretary General and MLA Achumbemo Kikon, the party said he had been discharging his responsibility by clarifying the party’s position and defending the rights of the people. It described Therie’s personal criticism of Kikon as “uncalled for” and against Naga tradition of respecting each other.

On the issue of an interlocutor and the proposed Apex Committee, the NPF rejected Therie’s claim that the Centre had turned down the Chief Minister’s proposal for a new interlocutor. The party claimed instead that the Centre had assured the appointment of a ministerial-level Apex Committee to take the process forward.

The NPF also referred to the September 12, 2024 resolution adopted at a meeting attended by Naga civil society organisations, churches and elected representatives, including the two Members of Parliament, calling for the talks to be elevated to the political/ministerial level.

The party further reiterated its commitment to an early, honourable, inclusive and acceptable political solution through democratic and peaceful means. It said the Naga issue could not be resolved through blame-shifting or “shortcut methods,” but required political will, unity, inclusiveness and mutual trust.