Nagaland Assembly Discusses Ceasefire and Law and Order Issues
Kohima (Nagaland) [India], August 29: On the second day of the 5th session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly, important discussions were held about the ceasefire and law and order situation in the state.
Concerns Raised by MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu
MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, who is also the Leader of the NPF Legislature Party, expressed serious concerns. He stated that the ceasefire has become a tool for threats, kidnappings, extortion, multiple taxation, and killings. He questioned how long leaders could remain silent and allow such activities to challenge the rule of law. Azo suggested that the ceasefire ground rules need immediate review to incorporate measures to control violations and enforce the rule of law.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton’s Response
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, who also oversees Home and Border affairs, informed the assembly that the state government has written to the Chairman of the Cease Fire Monitoring Group/Ceasefire Supervisory Board, highlighting ceasefire violations and seeking action. He mentioned that the police have been making regular arrests related to extortion cases and that the crime situation is under control.
Ceasefire Extensions
Patton reminded the assembly that the Government of India has extended the ceasefire for various factions:
- NSCN-R and NSCN-KN: From April 28, 2024, to April 27, 2025
- NSCN-K (Khango): From April 18, 2024, to April 17, 2025
- NSCN-K (Nikki): From September 8, 2023, to September 7, 2024
He also mentioned that certain areas have been declared ‘disturbed areas’ under Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act 1958 for six months starting from April 1, 2024.
Designated Camps
Patton informed the assembly about the presence of fifteen designated camps for different groups:
- NSCN-IM: 9 camps
- NSCN-KN: 3 camps
- NSCN-R: 1 camp
- NSCN (Nikki): 1 camp
- NSCN-K (Khango): 1 camp
He assured the members that the state’s police force is working tirelessly to maintain law and order.
Doubts Revealed
Nagaland -: Nagaland is a state in the northeastern part of India. It is known for its rich culture and diverse tribes.
Assembly -: An assembly is a group of people who come together to make laws and discuss important issues. In this case, it is the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
Ceasefire -: A ceasefire is an agreement to stop fighting for a certain period of time. It is usually made between groups that are in conflict.
Law and Order -: Law and order refer to the situation where laws are followed, and there is peace and safety in the community.
MLA -: MLA stands for Member of Legislative Assembly. An MLA is a person elected by the people to represent them in the state assembly.
Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu -: Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu is a politician and an MLA in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly.
Deputy Chief Minister -: The Deputy Chief Minister is the second-highest-ranking official in the state government, just below the Chief Minister.
Y Patton -: Y Patton is the Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland.
Extortion -: Extortion is when someone forces another person to give them money or something valuable by threatening them.
Factions -: Factions are smaller groups within a larger group, often with different opinions or interests.
Armed Forces Act -: The Armed Forces Act is a law that gives special powers to the military in certain areas, especially where there is trouble or conflict.
Disturbed Areas -: Disturbed areas are regions where there is a lot of conflict or trouble, and special laws are applied to maintain order.
