In 2013 State general election, the electorates of Nagaland gave decisive mandate to Naga People’s Front. NPF won 38 out of 60 seats to constitute the 12th house of Nagaland Legislative Assembly. By common sense, Nagaland should have experienced political stability. Regrettably, it has been the opposite. Myriads of factors were responsible for causing instability of the government. Leadership tussle for the top post, the chase for cabinet portfolios, taking in other non-alliance parties and independent MLAs into the government were all responsible. The worst betrayal to the people was when the Congress MLAs decided to give up their opposition role and joined the already over-crowded NPF camp. Frequent dissident activities within NPF have caused untold sufferings to the people of Nagaland. The problems caused by their selfish political games need no introduction and elaboration. The latest in series is actually not reconciliation of two NPF factions but another political crisis, harassing the public. People are absolutely fed up and are eager to see this government go away at the earliest. NPF has taken people of Nagaland for a ride. Public’s patience has been stretched too far. Citizens of Nagaland are having hard times. In such situation of helplessness and hopelessness, who will rescue Nagaland to give relief to her citizens? President’s rule seems the only answer to mitigate the problems of Nagaland. The Hon’ble Governor of Nagaland should intervene for the sake of the citizens. The welfare of the people should take precedence in his fair judgment.
At this juncture, PR will meet multiple purposes. It will fulfill the wishes of people to end uncertainty. PR may even change the fortune of BJP in Nagaland. PR will also give the much needed time for the final leg of peace talk. The Nagaland legislators are demanding deferment of election for solution. PR will fulfill their demand. PR will also give opportunity to investigate corruption charges and clean the system. Citizens of Nagaland also expect development taking place at fast pace under PR.
Under Article 356 of the Constitution of India, the President of India, on the report and recommendation of the Hon’ble Governor of a State may impose PR on valid grounds. In the past, the Central government had imposed PR on the following grounds-
- Breakdown of law and order
- Where no ministry could be formed
- Political instability as a result of defections
- Popular agitation against the ministry
- Complete paralysis of the state administration
- Corruption and mal-administration
- To end party rivalry
- To prevent or facilitate the bifurcation of the state
- Pending elections in newly created States
- Where the State government belongs to a party which has suffered an overwhelming defeat in the election to the Lok Sabha
- Where a state government works against secularism
Does Nagaland qualify for any of these grounds?
If so, the chorus for PR by public should grow.
Dr. K. Hoshi
Phek Town
