11 political parties in Nagaland to boycott assembly polls

In an unprecedented move, as many as 11 political parties, including the ruling Naga People's Front(NPF), have vowed to not distribute party tickets or file nomination for the upcoming assembly polls on February 27.

The decision to the effect came after the meeting of the Core Committee of Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations (CCNTHCO) with various political parties in state capital Kohima on Monday .

The joint declaration signed by the political parties stated, "We, the undersigned, on behalf of all the political parties and the intending candidates have in compliance with wishes of people, decided not to go ahead with issuance of party tickets or filling of nominations."

Besides Naga People's Front(NPF), the declaration is also signed by the representatives of the Congress, United Naga Democratic Party (UNDP), Nagaland Congress, AAP, BJP, National Democratic Political Party (NDPP), NCP, LJP, JD(U) and National People's Party (NPP)

Nagaland goes to polls on February 27 and there is strong demand from tribal bodies and civil society organisation for solution to decades old Naga political problem before the elections. Civil society groups in Nagaland have also spearheaded a 'Solution before Election' campaign in the state, seeking permanent resolution to the problem.

NSCN-IM and Naga national political groups (NNPGs) on Sunday had warned vested interest and unscrupulous persons not to sabotage the historical processes of negotiation by filling nominations and indulging in election process.