Northeast Desk, 9th November: In a historic move, the Nagaland Assembly unanimously passed the Nagaland Municipal Bill 2023 during an emergent session on November 9. The bill reserves one-third of seats in urban local bodies (ULBs) for women, marking the culmination of a prolonged debate and numerous attempts to reach consensus.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, while presenting the bill, emphasized the exclusion of provisions related to taxes on land and buildings. The one-third reservation for women in ULBs aligns with Supreme Court directives and has gained acceptance from apex tribal bodies in the state. Notably, the bill does not include the provision for one-third reservation of the offices of the chairperson in ULBs for women, a departure from the earlier Municipal Act.
Chief Minister Rio sees this legislation as a beginning, urging women to actively participate in the administration of urban local bodies. The Select Committee, led by Deputy Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang, examined the bill and recommended additional clauses, including eligibility criteria for municipal or town council members restricted to indigenous inhabitants and a periodic review of the Municipal Act every 10 years.
With 39 urban local bodies in Nagaland, the government aims to facilitate infrastructure development and amenities for the growing urban population through local self-governance. Despite unanimous support in the Assembly, discussions will continue with tribal bodies opposing the 33% women reservation.
The State Election Commission is expected to announce ULB election dates soon, marking a significant step forward after prolonged delays since the last polls in 2004. The passage of the Nagaland Municipal Bill 2023 is a pivotal moment in addressing challenges, fostering development, and promoting inclusive governance in the state.