The Eastern Nagaland Legislators Union (ENLU) has said that the dialogue for Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) is an ongoing matter that cuts across all political lines as the matter pertains to the aspirations of the tribes and people of Eastern Nagaland and that it should not be used by any individual or political party as a tool for mileage or gain.

Replying to the statement issued by the Rising People’s Party on 12th June 2024 where RPP accused Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio of having fooled the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), firstly, by delaying commenting on the Draft Working Paper (DWP) on FNT and by fielding candidates in the region for the upcoming Urban Local Body elections.

“The Chief Minister cannot be blamed or made responsible, but rather under his leadership and guidance we are all making concerted efforts to resolve the issue in a manner that is in the best interest of the people.”

In its statement, the 20 elected members of Eastern Nagaland have maintained that the CM received the draft on the FNT from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) which was then handed over to the ENLU members for observation, consultation and comments.

Accordingly, the ENLU took the initiative to sit and discuss over the draft with the ENPO and Frontal Organisations from the Eastern Nagaland. However, the ENPO refused to study or give comments stating their doubt over the authenticity of the draft which led to the delay in the progress of the talk, it stated.

Read more: Rio fools ENPO twice, accuses Rising People’s Party