The next move of Nagaland Governor P. B. Acharya is being closely watched since he may either summon a special Assembly session or recommend an interregnum of President’s Rule.
The political tug of war between the anti and pro-T. R. Zeliang factions of the ruling Naga People’s Front has intensified so much that either of these options will put an end to it. The dissidents’ movement demanding the Chief Minister’s ouster began from January 5. It has gathered considerable political momentum now. Those led by G. Kaito Aye are demanding removal of NPF president Shuuhozehie and election of a new president. This is in response to his statement that the pro-changers have 19 MLAs only.
He also said that this group cannot include the three BJP MLAs. The BJP is a partner in the ruling Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) of which the NPF is major player. The BJP MLAs cannot change their loyalty without formalities. As the chairman of the DAN, he has not received any information about the change of loyalty.
The pro-changers claim a support of 22 MLAs without the BJP MLAs. They say that 15 MLAs without the lone JD(U) MLA are supporting the Chief Minister.
Meanwhile, the Opposition Congress described the ongoing political tussle as internal crisis of the NPF. But at the same time it is appealing to the Governor to rescue the people of the State.
