Kohima, Nagaland – In a historic step, the Nagaland Cabinet on Wednesday endorsed a proposal to establish the Frontier Nagaland Territory Authority (FNTA), aimed at addressing the long-standing demand for autonomy from the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO).
Representing six districts and eight indigenous tribes – including the Chang, Konyak, Phom, Tikhir, Sangtam, Yimkhiung, Khiamniungan, and parts of the Sema tribe – the ENPO has persistently sought greater administrative independence, citing decades of neglect since Nagaland’s statehood formation.
The ENPO has championed the creation of a Frontier Nagaland Territory since 2010, maintaining regular dialogue with the Central government. Frustration over delays led the organization to boycott the Lok Sabha and Urban Local Body elections earlier this year, intensifying its push for self-governance in eastern Nagaland.
The Centre, acknowledging the ENPO’s demands, initiated a tripartite negotiation involving the state government, the ENPO, and central authorities, marking a significant collaborative effort to address the concerns.
Government spokesperson and Cabinet Minister C L John confirmed that Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting included thorough discussions on the proposal, affirming the Nagaland government’s intent to move forward with the FNTA. “The state will soon submit its response to the Ministry of Home Affairs on the ENPO’s proposal,” said Minister John. He further clarified that under the FNTA, eastern Nagaland will remain under Nagaland’s jurisdiction, continuing to benefit from protections under Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, which grants special privileges to the state.
In addition to the ENPO demand, the Cabinet raised concerns over alleged encroachments along the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) by Assam. Expressing disapproval of the situation, the Cabinet resolved to take the matter up with both the Assam government and the Central government, seeking a resolution to preserve territorial integrity.
The Nagaland Cabinet’s acceptance of the FNTA proposal marks a key advancement in regional governance, aiming to empower communities in eastern Nagaland while maintaining state cohesion. The government is expected to proceed with its submission to the Centre, moving closer to a potential resolution on this long-standing issue.
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