After suspension of public emergency restrictions, black flags raised in eastern Nagaland

DIMAPUR — Symbolic black flags were hoisted in all six districts of eastern Nagaland on Thursday, as a unified expression of protest against the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

This act of solidarity stems from discontent over the ministry’s failure to fulfil assurances concerning the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT).

It also signifies the lifting of restrictions imposed under the ‘public emergency’ in the districts of Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, and Tuensang, as decided by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) and its frontal organisations during a joint coordination meeting on March 19.

The black flags will remain hoisted until further notice.

According to a statement issued by the Chang Khulei Setshang (Chang Tribal Council), all ongoing restrictions under Chang jurisdiction were temporarily suspended effective from March 21.

Stating that the ‘public emergency’ would continue, it directed hoisting of black flags in all government offices in the district headquarter and sub divisions under Chang jurisdiction. It also instructed business establishments to hoist flags measuring 24 inches by 18 inches and households at Tuensang town to hoist flags measuring 18 inches by 12 inches.

Additionally, black flags are also to be hoisted on all private vehicles in Tuensang town, it said.

Similar directives were also issued by tribal bodies in other parts of the eastern region, and the flags were hoisted in various locations including government offices, and certain parts of towns, across the six districts.

Also read: Nagaland Chief Minister requests ENPO not to boycott Lok Sabha election