The Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) has decided to pause its demand for separate statehood and accept the Central Government’s proposal for granting autonomy to six eastern districts of Nagaland. This move marks a major shift in the group’s long-running struggle for a Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT).

In a recent statement, ENPO said it was “compelled” to temporarily step back from its statehood demand, adding that the offer from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) includes a special autonomy setup. The arrangement covers Kiphire, Longleng, Mon, Noklak, Shamator, and Tuensang districts.

ENPO’s Revised Stand on Autonomy

The ENPO confirmed that it has submitted its official position on the draft settlement to the MHA, along with feedback from the Nagaland government. The body, which represents tribal organisations across the six districts, stressed that this shift is temporary. They expect a review of the arrangement within 10 years, with pending issues to be addressed through democratic and political means.

The group made it clear that executive, legislative, and financial powers under the proposed FNT framework must be fully respected and implemented. They also insisted that all existing responsibilities of the state should remain intact within the new territory.

Key Demands from ENPO

• Permanent High Court bench in the FNT region
• Increased funding from the Consolidated Fund of India
• Empowering the state to pass laws under Article 371A
• Additional Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha seats during delimitation
• A balanced power-sharing system for both state and FNT legislative members
• Modernisation and salary hike for village guards

Background of the Demand

Since 2010, ENPO has pushed for the creation of a separate Frontier Nagaland citing lack of development, infrastructure, and fair governance in the eastern regions. The demand intensified after repeated claims of neglect since the formation of Nagaland state in 1963.

In protest, ENPO boycotted the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and skipped urban local body polls held last year.

The state government joined the tripartite talks in late 2024 and responded positively to the Centre’s proposal. Now, with this step forward, the region awaits formal implementation of the Frontier Nagaland Territory Agreement (FNTA).