Nagaland is an ideological frontier to the mainland cultural nationalism. The current mainstream nationalism has met its match in a highly evangelized society which today is interchangeable with the Naga identity. Elections which were supposed to rotate around the issue of Naga Accord today stands superseded by the narrative of cultural freedom, dietary habits and Naga way of life which is primarily Christian today.&nbsp;

Nagaland underwent the process of proselytisation under the British rule where American missionary Edwin W. Clark opened their first mission in Naga Hills near Ao Naga. Rest is history. It is an event in sub-continental history which will stay with the Union of India. Whether it was insularity of Hinduism at that point of time and absence of the dogma to convert or restriction of movement of Indian preachers in colonial India when Hinduism also acquired consciousness of number over caste, the demographic map of North East changed for good.

It is this restlessness of BJP and RSS on the issue of conversions which meets the settled reality of Nagaland wherein Naga identity stands coterminous with Christianity. This is also a case in Mizoram but in Kohima, it is married to the idea of Greater Nagaland or Nagalim. Previous elections moved from one issue to another but the question of Naga identity remained central to the political narrative. This time, with Nagaland Baptist Church Council issuing a statement, the game changed suddenly and unexpectedly. It set the cat amongst the pigeons.

Every political party had to recalibrate its position on issues ranging from faith to food. It is for this reason that BJP has gone to town on the issue of faith. BJP leaders declare in every meeting that Nagaland will be served best of Indian secularism. It is to rest the anxiety over the hard edge of cultural nationalism that has come to dominate Indian political landscape. It is an admission of the reality that what works in Uttar Pradesh will not work in Nagaland.&nbsp;

Nagaland, in fact, is the border where majoritarian nationalism has met its challenge from a small state. It stems from ruling party&rsquo;s desire to expand in areas which have been culturally different from heartland politics. This has happened because of mass media and Internet as distant &lsquo;realities&rsquo; acquire local political relevance. The elections also tell us that Church in North East has never been apolitical. The Baptist Church by writing the letter has officially acknowledged that it gives primacy to the Christian identity of people living in Nagaland than ethnic roots.

It is because of this debate that Nagaland is failing to discuss the real issue of massive corruption and organised pilferage of state subsidy by powerful politicians, bureaucrats and underground organisations. Beautiful houses are built alongside few of the worst maintained or not so their roads through the state. Nagaland is littered with expensive cars but it does not have industry to boost off. This happens for one simple reason and that being cash for votes. The cash distribution capacity represents the true strength of any candidate. For the fact that payment has become acceptable, the electorate loses its own moral power to question the politicians they elect as their representatives.

Lastly, Congress which was a force all across North East today is reduced as a side player in the game. Congress today only relies on the Church-supported narrative to help its candidates on odd 18 seats where it has fielded candidates. This has happened when Congress received 36.28 per cent votes in 2008 and 24.89 per cent in 2013. The BJP, on the other hand, got measly 5.35 per cent votes in 2008 and 1.75 per cent in 2013.&nbsp;

Despite the intrinsic strength and a bigger organisation, Congress allowed a bigger playing field to BJP in this election. The result is that most of the prominent Congress faces are fighting elections under the symbol of different parties. Among the regional parties, the ruling Naga People&#39;s Front maintains a massive edge over Nationalist Democratic People&#39;s Party-BJP alliance which is being led by the former Chief Minister Rio.

&nbsp;The bottom line is that both BJP and Congress, depending on their numbers in assembly, will reposition themselves so that they can be part of the government. The only difference between the both is that BJP is seen to be fighting the election and Congress is struggling to keep up its campaign floating. BJP is seen as a player for the fact that they are in power in the Centre.&nbsp;

As of now, not a single rally of Congress President Rahul Gandhi has been planned which itself is an indication of the lack of importance placed by the party. Lastly, Congress General Secretary CP Joshi has been an abysmal failure who is resented by the Congress across North East.&nbsp;

Another reality is that political mistrust also pervades between NDPP and BJP over funds and loyalty. NPF despite having an edge is still divided into two factions and can split on the question of CM&#39;s post. Nonetheless, it all depends on numbers election results will throw.&nbsp;

The sum total of the election is that with Church jumping into the fray, the game has opened. The only casualty is the debate on the real issue of diversion of state funds and cash for votes. It a disease which continues to flourish in the state with great pomp and show.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Nagaland is the faultline where majoritarian nationalism has met its challenge from a small state.

Nagaland is an ideological frontier to the mainland cultural nationalism. The current mainstream nationalism has met its match in a highly evangelized society which today is interchangeable with the Naga identity. Elections which were supposed to rotate around the issue of Naga Accord today stands superseded by the narrative of cultural freedom, dietary habits and Naga way of life which is primarily Christian today. Nagaland underwent the process of proselytisation under the British rule where American missionary Edwin W. Clark opened their first mission in Naga Hills near Ao Naga. Rest is history. It is an event in sub-continental history which will stay with the Union of India. Whether it was insularity of Hinduism at that point of time and absence of the dogma to convert or restriction of movement of Indian preachers in colonial India when Hinduism also acquired consciousness of number over caste, the demographic map of North East changed for good. It is this restlessness of BJP and RSS on the issue of conversions which meets the settled reality of Nagaland wherein Naga identity stands coterminous with Christianity. This is also a case in Mizoram but in Kohima, it is married to the idea of Greater Nagaland or Nagalim. Previous elections moved from one issue to another but the question of Naga identity remained central to the political narrative. This time, with Nagaland Baptist Church Council issuing a statement, the game changed suddenly and unexpectedly. It set the cat amongst the pigeons. Every political party had to recalibrate its position on issues ranging from faith to food. It is for this reason that BJP has gone to town on the issue of faith. BJP leaders declare in every meeting that Nagaland will be served best of Indian secularism. It is to rest the anxiety over the hard edge of cultural nationalism that has come to dominate Indian political landscape. It is an admission of the reality that what works in Uttar Pradesh will not work in Nagaland. Nagaland, in fact, is the border where majoritarian nationalism has met its challenge from a small state. It stems from ruling party’s desire to expand in areas which have been culturally different from heartland politics. This has happened because of mass media and Internet as distant ‘realities’ acquire local political relevance. The elections also tell us that Church in North East has never been apolitical. The Baptist Church by writing the letter has officially acknowledged that it gives primacy to the Christian identity of people living in Nagaland than ethnic roots. It is because of this debate that Nagaland is failing to discuss the real issue of massive corruption and organised pilferage of state subsidy by powerful politicians, bureaucrats and underground organisations. Beautiful houses are built alongside few of the worst maintained or not so their roads through the state. Nagaland is littered with expensive cars but it does not have industry to boost off. This happens for one simple reason and that being cash for votes. The cash distribution capacity represents the true strength of any candidate. For the fact that payment has become acceptable, the electorate loses its own moral power to question the politicians they elect as their representatives. Lastly, Congress which was a force all across North East today is reduced as a side player in the game. Congress today only relies on the Church-supported narrative to help its candidates on odd 18 seats where it has fielded candidates. This has happened when Congress received 36.28 per cent votes in 2008 and 24.89 per cent in 2013. The BJP, on the other hand, got measly 5.35 per cent votes in 2008 and 1.75 per cent in 2013. Despite the intrinsic strength and a bigger organisation, Congress allowed a bigger playing field to BJP in this election. The result is that most of the prominent Congress faces are fighting elections under the symbol of different parties. Among the regional parties, the ruling Naga People's Front maintains a massive edge over Nationalist Democratic People's Party-BJP alliance which is being led by the former Chief Minister Rio. The bottom line is that both BJP and Congress, depending on their numbers in assembly, will reposition themselves so that they can be part of the government. The only difference between the both is that BJP is seen to be fighting the election and Congress is struggling to keep up its campaign floating. BJP is seen as a player for the fact that they are in power in the Centre. As of now, not a single rally of Congress President Rahul Gandhi has been planned which itself is an indication of the lack of importance placed by the party. Lastly, Congress General Secretary CP Joshi has been an abysmal failure who is resented by the Congress across North East. Another reality is that political mistrust also pervades between NDPP and BJP over funds and loyalty. NPF despite having an edge is still divided into two factions and can split on the question of CM's post. Nonetheless, it all depends on numbers election results will throw. The sum total of the election is that with Church jumping into the fray, the game has opened. The only casualty is the debate on the real issue of diversion of state funds and cash for votes. It a disease which continues to flourish in the state with great pomp and show. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Corruption rules in Nagaland but election will be won on religious identity

WION interviewed Kiren Rijiju in Nagaland on the eve of elections in the Northeast. He spoke on the issues ranging from Naga Accord to separate time zone for the Northeast. Kiren Rijiju, in an exclusive interview, said that talks with the Naga leaders are in the last stage and could be announced soon. However, he did not give a timeline.

Q: How important is the Northeast for BJP?

A: Any election is important but NE is important because PM has set the agenda of Act East policy which can only be implemented by an honest government. Many governments in this region in past indulged in corruption. This time BJP has gone full steam to rest the power from the Congress. We are not giving a token fight. We have made an arrangement with the newly formed NDDP. We have a seat-sharing arrangement with them. I&rsquo;m overseeing the entire election and response has been tremendous.

Q: Earlier there was an impression that BJP was primarily focused on Tripura?

A: Tripura came into focus by the national media because it has been ruled by the Left party for decades and BJP unexpectedly took CPM head on. When BJP picked up, it became a big news. In Nagaland, the talks are also going on and it is a 70-year-old political problem. We need to tell the people that we are committed to solving the Naga problem. As a minister from NE, I&rsquo;m right now concentrating on Nagaland.

Q: In NE BJP did not show a leap of faith which it showed in Maharashtra and Haryana

A: In the context of Nagaland, we could have gone alone but we took sensitivities into account. We wanted a regional party to be part of &lsquo;us&rsquo; to implement the Naga Accord as and when it is signed which we are expecting soon. If we had gone alone, it would have given the impression that we are only interested in wresting away power. In Meghalaya, we are going alone. We only have an understanding.

Q: When do you intend to announce the Naga Accord? The term of the government would expire next year?

A: It is not a question of tenure. It is a question of commitment. PM from the day one has said that he wants to solve the issue. The talks are progressing smoothly and nearing the agreement which we are looking forward too. I feel that it should not take too much time. Some critical issues remain and they need to be settled and once they get resolved, we can implement it.

Q: There is lot anxiety about the details of the draft agreement or what would the accord look like

A: It was not an agreement. It was a framework agreement on which the talk would progress. It was a confidence-building measure. It is on that basis the talks have progressed. Some political parties like Congress tried to give a spin but did not work.

Q: Are you saying that by this year it could be announced?

A: If you give a timeline, the problem starts. It is not the question of how soon. It is a question of commitment and we are committed to it?

Q: NBCC wrote a letter to various political parties referring to BJP and Hindutva. Your response on it?

A: Nagaland would be governed by the Nagas. It is a Christian state. The CM, elected representatives and ministers are all Christians, so where is the question of imposition? The Constitution would guide us. No one can be discriminated on the basis of identity. Everyone is an Indian. Bringing religion into politics is not at all appreciated. If you target BJP, then someone benefits. I have said that we are a&nbsp;secular party functioning under a constitution which is secular in nature and there is no question of imposing faith on other people. Nagaland would be ruled by Naga people and there would not be any bearing on adverse impact on faith.

Q: Are you saying that church has become a political player in Nagaland?

A: We do not blame the church as not all the churches are of the same opinion. Maybe one or two people have raked up the issue to benefit a political party but we have effectively communicated to people that politics is about governance and has nothing to do with faith which is about an individual choice. No one should interfere with people&rsquo;s faith.

Q: Lot of people would say that BJP becomes another person when in the Northeast unlike what it is in the mainland

A: Obviously, India is a large country and every community has its own say in its domain area. If someone from J&amp;K goes to Tamil Nadu to say that their customs should be followed, the people will not listen. People in Nagaland have different food habits and lifestyle and they are entitled to it.

Q: Is Congress still a force in the Northeast?

A; Congress is paying a price for its misrule. They have been in Meghalaya for a long time. In Nagaland, Congress was strong but today they are not at all in the fight.

Q: Is your Mission the Northeast in line?

A: Yes, it is. One day we will be there in all the states.

Q: Elections in the Northeast are about everything but development why? It takes 3 hours to reach Kohima from Dimapur which is only 70 km away

A: Yes, I know. It is pathetic. Development has never been the agenda in an election and it was always about identity, regionalism and emotions. We are bringing back the agenda of good governance.

Q: Should Northeast have a separate time zone? What are you doing on this front?

A: This is an issue which has been raised many times. There is a concern that 1.5-hour difference leads to daytime loss. I handle a ministry which looks into this issue, so I would not like to comment on it but as a member from NE, I would say that if all the CMs from NE come forward with a coherent plan then we can think about it. But it needs to be discussed. It will have to be managed. Bhutan is half&nbsp;an hour ahead of the Indian time and Arunachal Pradesh is on the east of Bhutan still goes with the Lucknow time.

Q: Has PNB bank scam affected BJP&rsquo;s election campaign?

A: These are the scams which have genesis in Congress&#39;&nbsp;regime. If something stumbles out from our tenure then we would be responsible. It is having a positive impact on us as it did not happen during our tenure.

 
<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oz-7mNzYuMI" width="560"></iframe> 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Kiren Rijiju spoke to WION on issues ranging from the Naga Accord to separate time zone for Northeast

WION interviewed Kiren Rijiju in Nagaland on the eve of elections in the Northeast. He spoke on the issues ranging from Naga Accord to separate time zone for the Northeast. Kiren Rijiju, in an exclusive interview, said that talks with the Naga leaders are in the last stage and could be announced soon. However, he did not give a timeline. Q: How important is the Northeast for BJP? A: Any election is important but NE is important because PM has set the agenda of Act East policy which can only be implemented by an honest government. Many governments in this region in past indulged in corruption. This time BJP has gone full steam to rest the power from the Congress. We are not giving a token fight. We have made an arrangement with the newly formed NDDP. We have a seat-sharing arrangement with them. I’m overseeing the entire election and response has been tremendous. Q: Earlier there was an impression that BJP was primarily focused on Tripura? A: Tripura came into focus by the national media because it has been ruled by the Left party for decades and BJP unexpectedly took CPM head on. When BJP picked up, it became a big news. In Nagaland, the talks are also going on and it is a 70-year-old political problem. We need to tell the people that we are committed to solving the Naga problem. As a minister from NE, I’m right now concentrating on Nagaland. Q: In NE BJP did not show a leap of faith which it showed in Maharashtra and Haryana A: In the context of Nagaland, we could have gone alone but we took sensitivities into account. We wanted a regional party to be part of ‘us’ to implement the Naga Accord as and when it is signed which we are expecting soon. If we had gone alone, it would have given the impression that we are only interested in wresting away power. In Meghalaya, we are going alone. We only have an understanding. Q: When do you intend to announce the Naga Accord? The term of the government would expire next year? A: It is not a question of tenure. It is a question of commitment. PM from the day one has said that he wants to solve the issue. The talks are progressing smoothly and nearing the agreement which we are looking forward too. I feel that it should not take too much time. Some critical issues remain and they need to be settled and once they get resolved, we can implement it. Q: There is lot anxiety about the details of the draft agreement or what would the accord look like A: It was not an agreement. It was a framework agreement on which the talk would progress. It was a confidence-building measure. It is on that basis the talks have progressed. Some political parties like Congress tried to give a spin but did not work. Q: Are you saying that by this year it could be announced? A: If you give a timeline, the problem starts. It is not the question of how soon. It is a question of commitment and we are committed to it? Q: NBCC wrote a letter to various political parties referring to BJP and Hindutva. Your response on it? A: Nagaland would be governed by the Nagas. It is a Christian state. The CM, elected representatives and ministers are all Christians, so where is the question of imposition? The Constitution would guide us. No one can be discriminated on the basis of identity. Everyone is an Indian. Bringing religion into politics is not at all appreciated. If you target BJP, then someone benefits. I have said that we are a secular party functioning under a constitution which is secular in nature and there is no question of imposing faith on other people. Nagaland would be ruled by Naga people and there would not be any bearing on adverse impact on faith. Q: Are you saying that church has become a political player in Nagaland? A: We do not blame the church as not all the churches are of the same opinion. Maybe one or two people have raked up the issue to benefit a political party but we have effectively communicated to people that politics is about governance and has nothing to do with faith which is about an individual choice. No one should interfere with people’s faith. Q: Lot of people would say that BJP becomes another person when in the Northeast unlike what it is in the mainland A: Obviously, India is a large country and every community has its own say in its domain area. If someone from J&K goes to Tamil Nadu to say that their customs should be followed, the people will not listen. People in Nagaland have different food habits and lifestyle and they are entitled to it. Q: Is Congress still a force in the Northeast? A; Congress is paying a price for its misrule. They have been in Meghalaya for a long time. In Nagaland, Congress was strong but today they are not at all in the fight. Q: Is your Mission the Northeast in line? A: Yes, it is. One day we will be there in all the states. Q: Elections in the Northeast are about everything but development why? It takes 3 hours to reach Kohima from Dimapur which is only 70 km away A: Yes, I know. It is pathetic. Development has never been the agenda in an election and it was always about identity, regionalism and emotions. We are bringing back the agenda of good governance. Q: Should Northeast have a separate time zone? What are you doing on this front? A: This is an issue which has been raised many times. There is a concern that 1.5-hour difference leads to daytime loss. I handle a ministry which looks into this issue, so I would not like to comment on it but as a member from NE, I would say that if all the CMs from NE come forward with a coherent plan then we can think about it. But it needs to be discussed. It will have to be managed. Bhutan is half an hour ahead of the Indian time and Arunachal Pradesh is on the east of Bhutan still goes with the Lucknow time. Q: Has PNB bank scam affected BJP’s election campaign? A: These are the scams which have genesis in Congress' regime. If something stumbles out from our tenure then we would be responsible. It is having a positive impact on us as it did not happen during our tenure.

Regional support crucial to implement Naga Accord: BJP leader Kiren Rijiju to WION

Cultural moorings and political traditions are taken for granted by mainland perceptions. Landing in Nagaland on Sunday could change the idea of the uniqueness of North East for many people in mainland India. Nagaland is a predominantly Christian state. Church has an important place in the society. Though Church burst into national imagination on the issue of Hindutva and beef but it&#39;s influence on the day-to-day life is undeniable and inextricably linked with the larger Naga identity. Sunday is one manifestation of it with which no one plays around.

For an average Indian, state sleeps on Sunday and civil society has fun on that day. Sundays are the days when people hit the street. It is exactly the opposite in Nagaland. Sunday is the day of Church and family. It is not limited to a particular area. Towns after towns shut down. Markets are closed. Very few shops would open. Some may come to life in the evening but that too is like a trickle in an ocean. So landing in Nagaland on Sunday can be a shock as one can be found wanting for life on the street.

Such is the importance of Sunday that mainstream parties avoid keeping big rallies on Sunday in Nagaland which is exactly the opposite in mainland. Sunday is the day in India to catch eyeballs but Nagaland would beat the norm. Political candidates ensure door to door interaction on Sunday and not mega rallies. Sunday which is important to Christianity in Nagaland impacts both politics and public culture. I&#39;m sure that it is not the case in Europe and North America but it has acquired a unique combative quality in Nagaland which pits itself against mainland influence.

Sunday in Nagaland is a metaphor for unique nature of North East in the Indian political life. National awareness and electoral-political integration are accompanied with cultural distrust in Nagaland. It is in this contradiction lies the heart of Nagaland&#39;s politics. Congress despite being more open to Naga way of life is in political ICU and BJP which continues with hard Hindutva politics in the mainland has become a force in Nagaland and also ensured a good alliance for elections.

Though bottom line remains that Nagaland like many North East states has a different political rhythm and requires accommodation at a time when the premium is on integration.

Nagaland, like many Northeast states, has a different political rhythm

Cultural moorings and political traditions are taken for granted by mainland perceptions. Landing in Nagaland on Sunday could change the idea of the uniqueness of North East for many people in mainland India. Nagaland is a predominantly Christian state. Church has an important place in the society. Though Church burst into national imagination on the issue of Hindutva and beef but it's influence on the day-to-day life is undeniable and inextricably linked with the larger Naga identity. Sunday is one manifestation of it with which no one plays around. For an average Indian, state sleeps on Sunday and civil society has fun on that day. Sundays are the days when people hit the street. It is exactly the opposite in Nagaland. Sunday is the day of Church and family. It is not limited to a particular area. Towns after towns shut down. Markets are closed. Very few shops would open. Some may come to life in the evening but that too is like a trickle in an ocean. So landing in Nagaland on Sunday can be a shock as one can be found wanting for life on the street. Such is the importance of Sunday that mainstream parties avoid keeping big rallies on Sunday in Nagaland which is exactly the opposite in mainland. Sunday is the day in India to catch eyeballs but Nagaland would beat the norm. Political candidates ensure door to door interaction on Sunday and not mega rallies. Sunday which is important to Christianity in Nagaland impacts both politics and public culture. I'm sure that it is not the case in Europe and North America but it has acquired a unique combative quality in Nagaland which pits itself against mainland influence. Sunday in Nagaland is a metaphor for unique nature of North East in the Indian political life. National awareness and electoral-political integration are accompanied with cultural distrust in Nagaland. It is in this contradiction lies the heart of Nagaland's politics. Congress despite being more open to Naga way of life is in political ICU and BJP which continues with hard Hindutva politics in the mainland has become a force in Nagaland and also ensured a good alliance for elections. Though bottom line remains that Nagaland like many North East states has a different political rhythm and requires accommodation at a time when the premium is on integration.

Nagaland and the importance of Sunday

The Nagaland BJP has accused Odisha Governor SC Jamir of campaigning for the Congress.&nbsp;

Jamir has been a former chief minister of Nagaland, which goes to the polls on February 27.&nbsp;

The BJP has forwarded its complaint to the Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland.&nbsp;

&quot;I have the honour to state that, Dr SC Jamir, presnt Governor of Odisha is stationed in Mokokchung Town, Mokokchung District and campaigning for a particular candidate like Indian National Congress &nbsp;(INC) candidates and NPF candidates. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Nagaland strongly protest his involvement in the electioneering process in Nagaland as he suppose to maintain neutrality as per the constitution of India,&quot; Nagaland BJP general secretary Eduzo Theluo wrote to the chief electoral officer.&nbsp;

&quot;The above request is put forward to your kind authority so that sense of justice prevails in 2018 election,&quot; Theluo added.&nbsp;

The Nagaland BJP&#39;s media cell also put out a statement saying: &quot;Governor Jamir has no business to involve himself in electioneering process in Mokochung district. Why is he using the constitutional post of governor to serve his interest? Isn&rsquo;t he supposed to be neutral? BJP Nagaland reminds the governor that if he is so keen to enter state politics again he should resign immediately.&quot;&nbsp;

The statement added: &quot;We urge the honourable President of India to take action against Jamir for committing constitutional impropriety and dereliction of duties. Election code of conduct is in force whereas the head of a state is violating the constitutional practices with disdain.&quot;

Nagaland goes to the polls on February 27

The Nagaland BJP has accused Odisha Governor SC Jamir of campaigning for the Congress. Jamir has been a former chief minister of Nagaland, which goes to the polls on February 27. The BJP has forwarded its complaint to the Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland. "I have the honour to state that, Dr SC Jamir, presnt Governor of Odisha is stationed in Mokokchung Town, Mokokchung District and campaigning for a particular candidate like Indian National Congress (INC) candidates and NPF candidates. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Nagaland strongly protest his involvement in the electioneering process in Nagaland as he suppose to maintain neutrality as per the constitution of India," Nagaland BJP general secretary Eduzo Theluo wrote to the chief electoral officer. "The above request is put forward to your kind authority so that sense of justice prevails in 2018 election," Theluo added. The Nagaland BJP's media cell also put out a statement saying: "Governor Jamir has no business to involve himself in electioneering process in Mokochung district. Why is he using the constitutional post of governor to serve his interest? Isn’t he supposed to be neutral? BJP Nagaland reminds the governor that if he is so keen to enter state politics again he should resign immediately." The statement added: "We urge the honourable President of India to take action against Jamir for committing constitutional impropriety and dereliction of duties. Election code of conduct is in force whereas the head of a state is violating the constitutional practices with disdain."

Nagaland elections: BJP accuses Odisha Governor of campaigning for Congress

A church council in Nagaland has directed its followers against the age-old practice of yoga.&nbsp;

In the 67th general meeting of the Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) Christian believers were urged to refrain from practising yoga.&nbsp;

The authorities were directed not to impose yoga practices on Naga students to &quot;uphold the religious freedom envisaged in the Constitution,&quot; the official release noted.&nbsp;

&quot;Yoga is a spiritual and physical discipline deeply rooted in the religious beliefs and practices of Hinduism and hence it is not compatible with Christianity,&quot; read the letter.&nbsp;

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Church in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nagaland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nagaland</a> asks not to do Yoga. <a href="https://t.co/OLHXA33FaP">pic.twitter.com/OLHXA33FaP</a>
&mdash; Friends of RSS (@RSS_Org) <a href="https://twitter.com/RSS_Org/status/946005807031664640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The council met between January 19 and 20 and ran &#39;Knitted together in Christ&#39; as a theme.

A total of 514 delegates from various CBCC churches participated.&nbsp;

The CBCC release urged its believers to uphold the Biblical sanctions of Christian marriage and fight against all ideologies exploitative and detrimental to Christian faith.

The authority was directed not to impose yoga practices on Naga students

A church council in Nagaland has directed its followers against the age-old practice of yoga. In the 67th general meeting of the Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) Christian believers were urged to refrain from practising yoga. The authorities were directed not to impose yoga practices on Naga students to "uphold the religious freedom envisaged in the Constitution," the official release noted. "Yoga is a spiritual and physical discipline deeply rooted in the religious beliefs and practices of Hinduism and hence it is not compatible with Christianity," read the letter. Church in #Nagaland asks not to do Yoga. pic.twitter.com/OLHXA33FaP — Friends of RSS (@RSS_Org) December 27, 2017 × The council met between January 19 and 20 and ran 'Knitted together in Christ' as a theme. A total of 514 delegates from various CBCC churches participated. The CBCC release urged its believers to uphold the Biblical sanctions of Christian marriage and fight against all ideologies exploitative and detrimental to Christian faith.

Nagaland church council tells followers 'yoga not compatible with Christianity'

Convenor of core committee of Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations Theja Therie said today parties have agreed to its demand of not contesting the upcoming assembly polls in Nagaland to be held on February 17th.

According to reports, National Socialist Council of Nagaland Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and six Naga political groups have decided not to contest the state polls next month.

The ruling Naga People&#39;s Front(NPF) and other parties had on Saturday expressed the hope that a solution to the Naga issue could be found ahead of the Assembly elections in the state.

The NPF, National People&#39;s Party (NPP) and Aam Admi Party (AAP) had told the core committee of the Naga Hohos at a meeting that they had agreed to the demand of a &quot;solution not election&quot;.

The BJP had stayed away from the core committee meeting on Saturday. Several political parties were against the state elections as they felt a political solution needed to be found first to the Naga issue.&nbsp;

The parties urged the Tribal Hohos to convince the BJP to stay away from the polls to avoid a repeat of the 1998 state election when the Congress candidates filed nominations at the last moment leading to a resounding victory for the party.

According to reports, National Socialist Council of Nagaland Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and six Naga political groups have decided not to contest the state polls next month.

Convenor of core committee of Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations Theja Therie said today parties have agreed to its demand of not contesting the upcoming assembly polls in Nagaland to be held on February 17th. According to reports, National Socialist Council of Nagaland Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) and six Naga political groups have decided not to contest the state polls next month. The ruling Naga People's Front(NPF) and other parties had on Saturday expressed the hope that a solution to the Naga issue could be found ahead of the Assembly elections in the state. The NPF, National People's Party (NPP) and Aam Admi Party (AAP) had told the core committee of the Naga Hohos at a meeting that they had agreed to the demand of a "solution not election". The BJP had stayed away from the core committee meeting on Saturday. Several political parties were against the state elections as they felt a political solution needed to be found first to the Naga issue. The parties urged the Tribal Hohos to convince the BJP to stay away from the polls to avoid a repeat of the 1998 state election when the Congress candidates filed nominations at the last moment leading to a resounding victory for the party.

Parties have decided to stay away from polls: Nagaland Tribal Hohos

In a major development in poll-bound Nagaland, 11 parties including the ruling Naga People&#39;s Front today decided not to contest the February 27 elections, agreeing to the demand of tribal bodies and civil society groups to resolve the protracted Naga political problem first.

The decision came at a meeting called by the core committee of Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations (CCNTHCO) and attended by representatives of 11 parties.

&quot;It is the unanimous view of the Naga people that the political solution or Naga peace accord is more important than elections and therefore, it has become imperative that the elections to the legislative assembly of Nagaland be deferred for peace and tranquillity,&quot; read a joint declaration signed by the parties.

An all-party meeting in Dimapur took the decision to &lsquo;come together in the greater interest of the state in solidarity with the call &ldquo;Solution Before Election&rdquo;. It also decided to defer the 13th Nagaland Assembly elections and allow the Naga political process to reach its logical conclusion by giving space and time to the negotiating groups to bring out an early solution.

Altogether, 79 members were present in the meeting, including representatives from political parties, NSCN(I-M), Tribal Hohos and civil society groups.

The parties are -- Naga People&#39;s Front, Congress, BJP, Nationalist Democratic People&#39;s&nbsp;Party, Nagaland Congress, United Nagaland Democratic Party, Aam Admi Party, National Congress Party, Lok Jan Party, Janata Dal (United) and National People&#39;s Party.

&quot;We, on behalf of all the political parties and the intending candidates, have in compliance with the wishes of the people decided not to go ahead with the issuance of party tickets or filing of nominations,&quot; it read.

The Naga Hoho, an apex Naga tribal body, had earlier this month sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s help in postponing the elections, saying the vexed issue should be resolved first.

Civil society groups in Nagaland have also launched a campaign &#39;Solution before Election&#39;.

The decision came at a meeting called by the core committee of Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations (CCNTHCO) and attended by representatives of 11 parties

In a major development in poll-bound Nagaland, 11 parties including the ruling Naga People's Front today decided not to contest the February 27 elections, agreeing to the demand of tribal bodies and civil society groups to resolve the protracted Naga political problem first. The decision came at a meeting called by the core committee of Nagaland Tribal Hohos and Civil Organisations (CCNTHCO) and attended by representatives of 11 parties. "It is the unanimous view of the Naga people that the political solution or Naga peace accord is more important than elections and therefore, it has become imperative that the elections to the legislative assembly of Nagaland be deferred for peace and tranquillity," read a joint declaration signed by the parties. An all-party meeting in Dimapur took the decision to ‘come together in the greater interest of the state in solidarity with the call “Solution Before Election”. It also decided to defer the 13th Nagaland Assembly elections and allow the Naga political process to reach its logical conclusion by giving space and time to the negotiating groups to bring out an early solution. Altogether, 79 members were present in the meeting, including representatives from political parties, NSCN(I-M), Tribal Hohos and civil society groups. The parties are -- Naga People's Front, Congress, BJP, Nationalist Democratic People's Party, Nagaland Congress, United Nagaland Democratic Party, Aam Admi Party, National Congress Party, Lok Jan Party, Janata Dal (United) and National People's Party. "We, on behalf of all the political parties and the intending candidates, have in compliance with the wishes of the people decided not to go ahead with the issuance of party tickets or filing of nominations," it read. The Naga Hoho, an apex Naga tribal body, had earlier this month sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's help in postponing the elections, saying the vexed issue should be resolved first. Civil society groups in Nagaland have also launched a campaign 'Solution before Election'.

11 political parties in Nagaland not to contest assembly polls over stalled peace accord

Assembly polls in&nbsp;Tripura will be held on February 18 while&nbsp;Meghalaya, Nagaland&nbsp;on&nbsp;February 27, announced Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AK Joti in Delhi on Thursday.

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Counting in all the three states to take place on March 3, 2018.&nbsp;Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura all have 60 seats each.&nbsp;

Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) will be used in all three states.&nbsp;

First level checks have been completed, Joti said and added that the&nbsp;model code of conduct comes into effect from today in the three poll-bound northeast states.&nbsp;

The Legislative Assembly elections 2018 in Tripura, Meghalaya, and Nagaland will be held in a single phase.

Central forces to do area domination and flag marches will be deployed well in advance in all three states, CEC A K Joti says.

VVPAT count from one polling station each of every constituency in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura to be matched with EVM count.

The Assembly terms of Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura end on March 6, March 13 and March 14 respectively.&nbsp;

Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) will be used in all three states

Assembly polls in Tripura will be held on February 18 while Meghalaya, Nagaland on February 27, announced Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AK Joti in Delhi on Thursday. × Counting in all the three states to take place on March 3, 2018. Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura all have 60 seats each. Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) will be used in all three states. First level checks have been completed, Joti said and added that the model code of conduct comes into effect from today in the three poll-bound northeast states. The Legislative Assembly elections 2018 in Tripura, Meghalaya, and Nagaland will be held in a single phase. Central forces to do area domination and flag marches will be deployed well in advance in all three states, CEC A K Joti says. VVPAT count from one polling station each of every constituency in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura to be matched with EVM count. The Assembly terms of Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura end on March 6, March 13 and March 14 respectively.

Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura assembly polls to be held in February

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is expected to announce the polling date for Assembly elections in Meghalaya, Tripura and Nagaland in the national capital on Thursday.

The Legislative Assembly elections 2018 in Tripura, Meghalaya, and Nagaland will be held in a single phase.

The polling in all the three states is likely to be held in February.

The polling in all the three states is likely to be held in February.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is expected to announce the polling date for Assembly elections in Meghalaya, Tripura and Nagaland in the national capital on Thursday. The Legislative Assembly elections 2018 in Tripura, Meghalaya, and Nagaland will be held in a single phase. The polling in all the three states is likely to be held in February.

Election commission to announce dates for Meghalaya, Tripura, Nagaland polls today

Nagaland chief minister TR Zeliang who was sworn in on Wednesday won the trust vote in the state assembly today with 47 out of total 58 MLAs voting in his favour.

House Speaker Imtiwapang said Zeliang bagged votes from 36 NPF, 4 BJP and 7 Independents members.

Nagaland governor<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nagaland-cm-liezietsu-fails-to-show-up-for-floor-test-governor-invites-zeliang-to-form-govt-18076"> PB Acharya had invited former chief minister TR Zeliang to be sworn in as chief minister </a>after embattled ex-chief minister Shurhozelie Liezietsu and his supporters failed to turn up in the Assembly to face the floor test.

The governor had asked Zeliang to prove his majority on or before 22 July.

House Speaker Imtiwapang said Zeliang bagged votes from 36 NPF, 4 BJP and 7 Independents members

Nagaland chief minister TR Zeliang who was sworn in on Wednesday won the trust vote in the state assembly today with 47 out of total 58 MLAs voting in his favour. House Speaker Imtiwapang said Zeliang bagged votes from 36 NPF, 4 BJP and 7 Independents members. Nagaland governor PB Acharya had invited former chief minister TR Zeliang to be sworn in as chief minister after embattled ex-chief minister Shurhozelie Liezietsu and his supporters failed to turn up in the Assembly to face the floor test. The governor had asked Zeliang to prove his majority on or before 22 July.

Nagaland chief minister Zeliang wins trust vote

TR Zeliang was today&nbsp;sworn in as the new chief minister of Nagaland at the Darbar hall in Raj Bhavan.

Nagaland governor PB Acharya invited former chief minister TR Zeliang to be sworn in as chief minister after embattled chief minister Shurhozelie Liezietsu and his supporters failed to turn up in the Assembly to face the floor test.

The governor has asked Zeliang to prove his majority on or before 22 July.

The governor had on July 11 and July 13 directed ex-chief minister Liezietsu, who was&nbsp;facing rebellion by 43 ruling Naga Peoples Front MLAs led by Zeliang demanding change of leadership in the present House of 59, to seek vote of confidence on or before July 15 but&nbsp; Liezietsu failed to show up at the Assembly today.

Nagaland&#39;s new chief minister Zeliang was forced out of office in February following large scale protests over holding of urban local bodies election with 33 per cent reservation for women.

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TR Zeliang sworn in as the new Chief Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nagaland?src=hash">#Nagaland</a> at Darbar Hall, Raj Bhavan in Kohima. <a href="https://t.co/ldyLVqmwUB">pic.twitter.com/ldyLVqmwUB</a>
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The governor has asked Zeliang to prove his majority on or before 22 July

TR Zeliang was today sworn in as the new chief minister of Nagaland at the Darbar hall in Raj Bhavan. Nagaland governor PB Acharya invited former chief minister TR Zeliang to be sworn in as chief minister after embattled chief minister Shurhozelie Liezietsu and his supporters failed to turn up in the Assembly to face the floor test. The governor has asked Zeliang to prove his majority on or before 22 July. The governor had on July 11 and July 13 directed ex-chief minister Liezietsu, who was facing rebellion by 43 ruling Naga Peoples Front MLAs led by Zeliang demanding change of leadership in the present House of 59, to seek vote of confidence on or before July 15 but Liezietsu failed to show up at the Assembly today. Nagaland's new chief minister Zeliang was forced out of office in February following large scale protests over holding of urban local bodies election with 33 per cent reservation for women. TR Zeliang sworn in as the new Chief Minister of #Nagaland at Darbar Hall, Raj Bhavan in Kohima. pic.twitter.com/ldyLVqmwUB — ANI (@ANI_news) July 19, 2017 ×

Zeliang sworn in as Nagaland chief minister after ex-CM Liezietsu fails to show up for floor test

With GST here, the people of Nagaland want &quot;rebel governments&quot; in the state to also levy just one tax on them.&nbsp;

The Hindustan Times reported that while &quot;most communities in Nagaland, including the Nagas, are listed as scheduled tribes and are thus exempt from income tax under section 10(26) of the Income Tax Act... almost everyone &ndash; police officers too &ndash; pays income tax to several underground governments, the rate varying from 12-24% of a month&rsquo;s salary or income.&quot;

It added that &quot;Nagaland has at least nine extremist groups that impose an array of &lsquo;donations&rsquo; &ndash; income, shop, commercial and house tax &ndash; to generate revenue for their &#39;governments&#39;. The rebels say it is their right to collect such taxes but do not specify if they spend the taxpayers&rsquo; money for civic projects.&quot;

The Hindustan Times reported locals as saying a GST-like, one &quot;rebel government&quot; tax would &quot;kill two birds with one stone &ndash; ease the fiscal burden on the common man who ends up paying half his earnings as taxes to non-legitimate governments and unify all rebel outfits for the &#39;Naga political cause&#39; of uniting all Naga-inhabited areas under one administrative umbrella.&quot;

&ldquo;We are insisting on one tax, and an end to multiple taxes will make the Naga political groups unify,&rdquo; the Hindustan Times reported Khekaghu Meru, co-chairman of Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT), a citizens group formed in 2014 to protest extortion and multiple levies, as saying.&nbsp;

It added that the group&rsquo;s advocacy has previously forced rebel groups to slash their &quot;tax&quot; rates and reduce exorbitant levies on shopkeepers and small traders.

Almost everyone in the state ? police officers too ? pays income tax to several underground governments, the rate varying from 12-24% of a month?s salary or income

With GST here, the people of Nagaland want "rebel governments" in the state to also levy just one tax on them. The Hindustan Times reported that while "most communities in Nagaland, including the Nagas, are listed as scheduled tribes and are thus exempt from income tax under section 10(26) of the Income Tax Act... almost everyone – police officers too – pays income tax to several underground governments, the rate varying from 12-24% of a month’s salary or income." It added that "Nagaland has at least nine extremist groups that impose an array of ‘donations’ – income, shop, commercial and house tax – to generate revenue for their 'governments'. The rebels say it is their right to collect such taxes but do not specify if they spend the taxpayers’ money for civic projects." The Hindustan Times reported locals as saying a GST-like, one "rebel government" tax would "kill two birds with one stone – ease the fiscal burden on the common man who ends up paying half his earnings as taxes to non-legitimate governments and unify all rebel outfits for the 'Naga political cause' of uniting all Naga-inhabited areas under one administrative umbrella." “We are insisting on one tax, and an end to multiple taxes will make the Naga political groups unify,” the Hindustan Times reported Khekaghu Meru, co-chairman of Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT), a citizens group formed in 2014 to protest extortion and multiple levies, as saying. It added that the group’s advocacy has previously forced rebel groups to slash their "tax" rates and reduce exorbitant levies on shopkeepers and small traders.

With GST here, people of Nagaland want 'rebel govts' to also levy just one tax

Three cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-K) and an Assam Rifles officer were killed in an encounter in Mon district of Nagaland, a defence spokesman said today.

Three Assam Rifles jawans were also injured in the encounter that took place at Lappa in Tizit circle last night.

AR personnel raided Lappa at around 11 PM following information that NSCN(K) cadres were moving through that area and an encounter ensued, the spokesman said.

The encounter continued for several hours.

Later, bodies of the three militants were found, the spokesman said.

(PTI)

Three Assam Rifles jawans were also injured in the encounter that took place at Lappa in Tizit circle last night.

Three cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-K) and an Assam Rifles officer were killed in an encounter in Mon district of Nagaland, a defence spokesman said today. Three Assam Rifles jawans were also injured in the encounter that took place at Lappa in Tizit circle last night. AR personnel raided Lappa at around 11 PM following information that NSCN(K) cadres were moving through that area and an encounter ensued, the spokesman said. The encounter continued for several hours. Later, bodies of the three militants were found, the spokesman said. (PTI)

Nagaland: 3 NSCN (K) cadres, 1 Assam Rifles jawan killed in encounter

The chief minister of India&#39;s Northeastern state of Nagaland,&nbsp;T R Zeliang, has rejected the demand for his government&#39;s resignation following the death of two persons in anti-Urban Local Body poll agitation in Dimapur and appealed to the people to stop violence and not fall prey to rumour mongers.

Curfew remains imposed in the city of Dimapur after clash between police and mob over local body elections.

&quot;Making unreasonable and unconstitutional demands such as asking the entire Cabinet to tender resignation when the ministry has undisputed, unquestionable majority and support of the entire Assembly, is simply unacceptable and non-negotiable,&quot; the chief minister&#39;s office said in a statement.

Violent mobs on Thursday went on a rampage in the state&#39;s capital Kohima to vent their anger against ongoing elections to urban local bodies, vandalising and setting government offices&nbsp;and vehicles on fire, prompting the deployment of five columns of the army to bring the situation under control.

Activists of several tribal groups vandalised the State Election Commission and deputy commissioner&#39;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 chief minister T R 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, sources said.

A curfew came into effect from 9:30 pm on Thursday and would continue till further order, a notification said.

The statement said the MLA of Northern Angami Constituency Neiphrezo Keditsu was forced to tender his resignation as the chairman of Nagaland State Mineral Development Corporation on moral ground as one of the two persons killed in Dimapur happens to be from his own village.

(PTI)

Violent mobs on Thursday went on a rampage in the state's capital Kohima to vent their anger against ongoing elections to urban local bodies

The chief minister of India's Northeastern state of Nagaland, T R Zeliang, has rejected the demand for his government's resignation following the death of two persons in anti-Urban Local Body poll agitation in Dimapur and appealed to the people to stop violence and not fall prey to rumour mongers. Curfew remains imposed in the city of Dimapur after clash between police and mob over local body elections. "Making unreasonable and unconstitutional demands such as asking the entire Cabinet to tender resignation when the ministry has undisputed, unquestionable majority and support of the entire Assembly, is simply unacceptable and non-negotiable," the chief minister's office said in a statement. Violent mobs on Thursday went on a rampage in the state's capital Kohima to vent their anger against ongoing elections to urban local bodies, vandalising and setting government offices and vehicles on fire, prompting the deployment of five columns of the army to bring the situation under control. 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 chief minister T R 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, sources said. A curfew came into effect from 9:30 pm on Thursday and would continue till further order, a notification said. The statement said the MLA of Northern Angami Constituency Neiphrezo Keditsu was forced to tender his resignation as the chairman of Nagaland State Mineral Development Corporation on moral ground as one of the two persons killed in Dimapur happens to be from his own village. (PTI)

India: Nagaland chief minister rejects resignation demand, Army deployed as violence escalates

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