NDPP disowns MP Tokheho’s statement on Article 371 (A)

DIMAPUR — The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) has issued a press communiqué clarifying that Lok Sabha MP Tokheho Yepthomi’s recent statement on Article 371(A) is “neither the view nor the opinion of the Party or its leadership.”

Yepthomi, who is from NDPP, had reportedly said “I wish the GoI do away with Article 371(A)” at a recent programme in Chümoukedima.

“The NDPP stands firm in our commitment to protect the rights and privileges of the people of Nagaland by upholding and safeguarding all the provisions under Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India,” read the communiqué.

Further, putting its opinion on record, the party stated that “at a time when the Indo-Naga political settlement is at its crucial stage, there should be no dilution to Article 371(A), but rather it should be further strengthened in order to ensure a more permanent protection of our traditional customary practices along with safeguarding of our land and resources.”

The party also called upon all stakeholders to stand united in protecting the rights and privileges of the people for the future.