ENPO opposes recognition of Mao, Rongmei tribes

Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) has resolved to oppose the inclusion/recognition of Mao and Rongmei tribes in Nagaland.

In a statement, ENPO president Pongom Khiam said the decision was taken during the ENPO executive committee meeting held on May 4.

The meeting also resolved to seek appropriate clarifications from the state government with regard to the recognition of the two tribes in Nagaland.

Pongom Khiam said the meeting was attended by elected members from the ENPO jurisdictions (ENLU), ENPO officials, all frontal organizations (ENSF, ENGOA and ENWO), members of various committees and federating tribal units.

ENPO however said it supported the bills for integration of Naga inhabited areas which have also been passed by the state Assembly which incorporated integration of land along with the people. The same were passed by both the Congress and DAN governments.

No say on NTC: ENPO
Reacting to Naga Hoho’ statement opposing the formation of Nagaland Tribal Council (NTC), ENPO also clarified that it had “never endorsed” the Naga Hoho nor it took a decision on the matter.

ENPO made it clear that it had “no say or jurisdictional legitimacy and authority” over NTC area. The organization added that it was the sole prerogative of the Naga Hoho as the area of NTC fell within its “membership” and “territorial jurisdiction” whether to recognize or oppose the formation of NTC.