BJP invites Naga People’s Front to NDA meeting; regional party undecided

KOHIMA — The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has invited the president of Naga People’s Front (NPF), Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu, to the meeting of National Democratic Alliance (NDA) scheduled to be held on Tuesday in New Delhi but the regional party is yet to decide whether or not to accept the invitation.

Speaking to Eastern Mirror, a day after BJP president JP Nadda extended an invitation, Dr. Shürhozelie said the party will discuss first before taking a decision.

‘We are in opposition here (Nagaland), so just because somebody is inviting us, we should not become restless. We have to be very careful,’ he said.

‘We (NPF) are remaining in opposition and it is not our choice. I think everybody should understand that it is not our choice and that is where we are,’ he added.

When reminded about the NPF being an ally of the BJP-led government in Manipur for several years now, the veteran politician said “it is a policy matter”.

He went on to say that he had acknowledged receiving the letter but had told them (BJP) that the party would discuss first.

It may be mentioned that Nadda had earlier written to Dr. Shürhozelie, requesting him to attend the meeting.

“Your party Naga People’s Front is an important constituent of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). As a valuable part of the NDA coalition, you have played a significant role in India’s developmental journey of Sewa, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji,” read the letter.

“A meeting of NDA constituents is being organised on July 18, 2023 at 5 PM in New Delhi at Hotel The Ashok in the presence of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. You are cordially invited to the meeting. As part of the NDA, your support not only strengthens the coalition, but also strengthens India’s developmental journey. Your presence is cordially requested in the meeting,” it added.