The Rising People’s Party (RPP) issued a press release on 5 January with regard to the resignation of the state DGP, accusing the government of “political manipulation” for the extension of the DGP’s service and sending out a reminder that “the present government leaders have been appointed by the people for the benefit and progress of the Naga people and not for any individuals unending rapacity.”

In the release, the Party highlighted that that it had “cried foul” on the “political manipulation by the ruling government for the illegal/irregular extension of the DGP Nagaland” and that it had approached the Union Ministries and the Supreme Court of India on the issue. A petition was then filed in the Supreme Court by the Nagaland Law Students’ Federation and Vitho Zao, the vice president of RPP, it stated.

“The RPP in its letter to the union government clearly indicated along with written proof, that the move to retain the present DGP is solely for political reasons and in total contempt of service rules and regulations,” read the press release, which also added that the Party “discourages such blatant tactics” and “hopes such acts will be condemned by all.”

The Party lauded the outgoing DGP John Longkumer “for making the right move to shun away from unjust and corrupt practices” and thanked him “for his diligent service to the people of Nagaland”.

It also acknowledged the “prime role of the apex Court and the UPSC for the appreciable turn of events”.

In conclusion, the RPP stated that it “ardently envisages that the incoming incumbent DGP will uphold the rule of Law and not be persuaded or inclined by political pressures while performing his/her duties for the welfare of the Naga people.”