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Political Dynamics of Nagaland

Nagaland Current CM: Neiphiu Rio(NDPP)

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Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): Temjen Imna Along

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Nationalist Congress Party –SP (NCP(S)): Joseph D

joseph Political Dynamics of Nagaland

Naga’s People Front (NPF): Shurhozelie Liezietsu

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Indian National Congress (INC): S Supongmeren Jamir

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Nagaland’s politics is deeply influenced by its unique cultural and ethnic identity, with the state’s political landscape dominated by regional parties that advocate for the rights and aspirations of the Naga people. The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, is currently the leading political force in the state. The NDPP has formed a coalition government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has gained a foothold in the state by aligning itself with regional interests while promoting national policies.

The Naga People’s Front (NPF), another significant player, has historically been dominant in Nagaland’s politics. Founded in 2002, the NPF advocates for Naga nationalism and has been instrumental in negotiating peace processes between the Indian government and various insurgent groups. The party’s influence has waned in recent years, but it remains a critical voice in state politics.

Nagaland’s political discourse is heavily shaped by ongoing peace talks with insurgent groups like the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN), as the quest for a lasting solution to the Naga issue remains central to the state’s political agenda. The Indian National Congress (INC), once a dominant force in Nagaland, has seen its influence decline, although it continues to be active in state politics under the leadership of S. Supongmeren Jamir.

The state’s political dynamics are also influenced by its complex tribal composition, with different tribes exerting significant influence over local and state-level politics. This tribal diversity often results in coalition governments, where multiple parties come together to form a stable administration. As a result, political alliances in Nagaland are fluid, with parties frequently shifting allegiances based on the evolving political landscape.

Lok Sabha:

1967 (4th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: A. Kevichüsa (Naga Nationalist Organisation)

1971 (5th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Rano M. Shaiza (United Front of Nagaland)

1977 (6th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Rano M. Shaiza (United Democratic Front)

1980 (7th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Chingwang Konyak (Naga National Democratic Party)

1984 (8th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Shikiho Sema (Indian National Congress)

1989 (9th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Vamuzo Phesao (Naga People’s Council)

1991 (10th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: K. Asungba Sangtam (Indian National Congress)

1996 (11th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: K. Asungba Sangtam (Indian National Congress)

1998 (12th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Imchalemba (Indian National Congress)

1999 (13th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Wangyuh Konyak (Indian National Congress)

2004 (14th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: W. Wangyuh Konyak (Nagaland People’s Front)

2009 (15th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: C.M. Chang (Nagaland People’s Front)

2014 (16th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Neiphiu Rio (Nagaland People’s Front)

2018 (17th Lok Sabha)

  • Winner: Tokheho Yepthomi (Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party)

Rajya Sabha:

1964-1970

  • Member: Dr. Melhupra Vero (Naga Nationalist Organisation)

1970-1976

  • Member: Kezehol Keso (Naga Nationalist Organisation)

1976-1982

  • Member: Vizol Angami (United Democratic Front)

1982-1988

  • Member: John Bosco Jasokie (Naga People’s Council)

1988-1994

  • Member: S.C. Jamir (Indian National Congress)

1994-2000

  • Member: M. Kikon (Indian National Congress)

2000-2006

  • Member: T. R. Zeliang (Naga People’s Front)

2006-2012

  • Member: Khekiho Zhimomi (Nagaland People’s Front)

2012-2018

  • Member: K. G. Kenye (Nagaland People’s Front)

2018-Present

  • Member: K.G. Kenye (Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, elected for the second term in 2018)

Political Parties in Nagaland:

Political Disputes:

Elections in Nagaland have also been marred by allegations of corruption, electoral malpractices, and violence. The use of money and muscle power in elections has been a persistent issue, undermining the democratic process and leading to disputes over the legitimacy of election outcomes. These challenges are compounded by the presence of armed groups, which continue to exert influence over political and social affairs in the state.

Furthermore, the state’s relationship with neighboring Assam has been a source of contention, particularly regarding border disputes. The border between Nagaland and Assam has been a flashpoint for violence, with both states claiming certain territories. These disputes have led to frequent skirmishes and have strained relations between the two states, further complicating Nagaland’s political landscape.

Overall, Nagaland’s political disputes are deeply intertwined with its history, ethnic composition, and regional dynamics. These issues continue to pose significant challenges to the state’s governance and its relationship with the rest of India.