Nagaland Cabinet Endorses Frontier Authority for Eastern Nagaland

The Nagaland Cabinet has approved the proposal to grant special powers under the Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority (FNTA) to address the long-standing demands of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO). This decision comes amidst ongoing negotiations involving the state and central governments.

The Nagaland Cabinet on Wednesday reached a landmark decision by agreeing to the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organisation's (ENPO) longtime demand for special powers, paving the way for the establishment of Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority (FNTA).

Amidst extensive discussions, the state Cabinet focused on the ENPO's appeal for the creation of a Frontier Nagaland Territory. This appeal is rooted in the historic marginalization of eastern districts, represented by eight tribes, since Nagaland's inception.

The government has been involved in tripartite talks inclusive of the ENPO and the Centre, stemming from the region's decision to boycott key elections. With FNTA underway, mandated under Article 371(A), the state's Cabinet plans to promptly address proposals from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Moreover, the Cabinet voiced concerns over territorial encroachments by Assam and plans to engage both the Centre and Assam government.

(With inputs from agencies.)