Ao Senden, the apex body of the Ao tribe, has appealed the government to invite representatives from the various Naga tribal hohos for consultation when it is drafting the new Nagaland Municipal Act to ensure that it does not infringe on Article 371-A.

In a consultative meeting held at Ao Senden Conference Hall on 29 March regarding the Urban Local Body (ULB) election, it appreciated the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for honouring the opinion of the Naga people and repealing the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001 in toto.

The meeting further resolved not to participate in any future initiatives of the government if it undermines the rights of the Naga people in respect of the Municipal Act.

Ao Senden further resolved not to allow ULB election in its jurisdiction if the government compromises the rights of the Naga people.

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Further, if the government were to appoint/nominate any advisor/committee/councilor for the ULBs prior to enacting an appropriate Municipal Act, the Ao Senden will not accept such appointment/nomination.

The meeting was attended by Ao Senden Landowners’ Board, Mokokchung Town Officers, All Ward Union Mokokchung Town Officers, All Ward Union Changtongya Town Officers,Tuli Town Ward Union Officers, All Ward Chairman Association Mangkolemba Town Officers and three members each from Akhoya, Changtongya, Merangkong, Wamaken and Kangtsüng, Khar and Longjemdang Village Councils.

Read: Bowing to pressure, 14th NLA repeals Nagaland Municipal Act 2001 in toto