The Union Home Ministry on Friday asked Assam Rifles to ensure safety of Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang, amid ongoing violent protests in parts of the State protesting 33 per cent reservation for women in Urban local Bodies (UlBs). Violent mobs went on the rampage in the Nagaland capital vandalising and setting on fire Government offices and vehicles on Thursday evening, prompting deployment of five columns of Army to bring the situation under control.
“I have talked to the Director General, Assam Rifles and told him that the Nagaland Chief Minister and his residence have to be saved,” MoS for Home Kiren Rijiju said, appealing to the agitating rebels to shun the violence.
Meanwhile, Home Ministry has convened a tripartite meeting with representatives of the Govt of Manipur and United Naga Council (UNC).
Officials said that the talks were inconclusive on bringing end to the three month long road blockade by Naga rebels at the National Highway connecting Manipur next talks will be held on April 7.
“We understand the sentiments of the people, but this is no way that you attack the cabinet and vandalise Government (institutions),” the Minister said on the sidelines of a function here. He asked people to understand the attempts made by “some forces” who are
trying to provide tool to the agitation.
The Nagaland Government has been facing stiff opposition from tribal bodies over introduction of 33 per cent reservation for women in the urban local bodies. The urban local bodies elections have been due in the State for over 16 years.
The Zeliang government decided to hold the polls following an interim Supreme Court order in a case filed by the Naga Mothers' Association for a directive to the state government to implement 33 per cent reservation for women in the UlBs, like in many other states. Apparently under pressure from the protesters, the state government on Thursday declared the elections process null and void there.
Activists of several tribal groups vandalised the State Election Commission and Deputy Commissioner's office and set ablaze the Kohima Municipal Council building. The Regional Transport office and that of the Excise Department were also set ablaze by violent mobs demanding the resignation of the Chief Minister Zeliang and his entire cabinet for going ahead with the UlB polls despite opposition from powerful tribal groups that are against 33 per cent reservation for women in the municipal bodies.