Nagaland assembly resists proposed Uniform Civil Code and Forest Act implementation

In the inaugural day of the monsoon session, all political parties in Nagaland, including NDPP, BJP, NCP, NPP, LJP (Ram Vilas), NPF, RPI (Athawale), JD(U), and Independents, convened to address critical issues.

Nagaland's legislative assembly expressed strong opposition to the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the implementation of the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act. The assembly emphasized the need for protection under the 16-Point Agreement and Article 371A, which grants special protection to Nagas.

Article 371A protection

NPF MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu highlighted that Article 371A safeguards Nagaland's religious and social practices, customary laws, civil and criminal justice according to Naga customs, and ownership and transfer of land and resources, unless the state assembly decides otherwise. He proposed a resolution rejecting the UCC and the Forest Conservation Amendment Act.

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Leaders from various political parties, including Nagaland BJP president Temjen Imna Along, assured their support for the assembly's resolution on both issues.

Chief Minister's optimism

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed optimism that the Centre would honor the political agreement and constitutional provisions provided to Nagaland. He disclosed that the state cabinet had already submitted a representation to the Law Commission, seeking exemption from the UCC. He further mentioned discussions with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who promised to look into the matter. However, he noted that, as an ally of the ruling NDA at the Centre, the state government couldn't oppose central government policies.

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CM Rio suggested the assembly pass a resolution appealing to the Centre for Nagaland's total exemption from the UCC and the Forest Conservation Amendment Act. Speaker Sharingain Longkumer indicated that separate resolutions for both issues would be presented for consideration on the following day.