5th session of 14th NLA from August 27; crucial issues in focus

KOHIMA — The fifth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) will commence on August 27 with crucial issues set to be deliberated during the two-day session.

As previously reported by this newspaper, on the first day, the House is expected to discuss the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act (NLTP Act) of 1989 under matters of Urgent Public Importance.

This contentious issue has become a much-discussed topic recently, following the state cabinet's decision on August 22 to reexamine the act.

In light of the cabinet’s decision, the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF), Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD), and other churches have voiced their opposition to the lifting of the act.

The final decision now rests with the Assembly, where opinions may differ in response to the pressures and concerns of various sections of society. However, given that the current government is opposition-less, the August 22 cabinet decision may likely go through.

Also read: Nagaland government mulls partial lifting of contentious NLTP Act

Another anticipated agenda under matters of Urgent Public Importance is the ongoing Naga political issue, especially after the formation of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) earlier this year. The PAC held its first meeting in May.

Additionally, following the Governor’s assent to the ordinance on the Anti-Defection Law on July 15, 2024, the amendment to the Nagaland Municipal Act, which addresses disqualification on the grounds of defection in Urban Local Bodies, is also expected to be passed.

Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye, who is also one of the state government’s spokespersons, had earlier informed media persons that on August 28, a break day, a meeting of the PAC on the Naga political issue and the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO)’s demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) will be held.

Earlier, in a meeting circular, the minister informed that the meeting would take place at the State Banquet Hall in Kohima, starting 11 am. He urged the two MPs, all 60 legislators of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly, and the Political Consultative Committee members from NDPP, BJP, NCP, NPP, LJP (RV), NPF, RPI (A), JD (U), and INC to attend the meeting.