Nagaland Polls: Violence expected in Mokokchung, Wokha districts
'Gentlemen's agreement, No Manipur/Southern Naga to interfere'

Nirendra Dev *

It may be early days but the security apparatus in connection with conducting of Feb 27 elections are being beefed up and there will be a total deployment of 305 companies of central forces in Nagaland.

"We are in control of things to the level elections ought to be conducted. There is a good sign this time as there is a gentlemen's agreement that no southern Naga leader will interfere in elections in the polls in the state of Nagaland," an informed source said. Already 75 companies of CAPF are in Nagaland and are being deployed in various areas.

"More companies of CAPF forces will reach Nagaland by February 20...but as of now what we get to gather is that there could be a few polls related violence in Mokokchung and Wokha districts," the source said.

To a question it has been clarified that "the Nagas of Nagaland have told the concerned quarters, we never go to Arunachal Pradesh or Manipur during elections, why should others also get involved. This is a gentlemen's agreement and all honourable people always keep the gentlemen's agreements".

Moreover, now in the run up to the polls what is emerging is a true "the tribe-based focus". And in this connection the security agencies are assessing the ground report closely. Thus, there is also a clear understanding that probably, 'A' will support the Z party and 'B' will support the Y party.

However, entry of neo-players and parties from other states have now created a situation under which for obvious geo-political reasons, the ''second element' will also possibly support one or two new players. For reasons more than one, this is going to be an election that will keep the entire state captivated.

The battle lines are being drawn. Even political parties from the rest of India which people seldom knew are this year key players at least in terms of fielding candidates in many segments. In addition to central forces, at least 45 state police companies are being readied for election duty.

According to police, 180 flying squad teams and 180 static surveillance teams are activated for the poll period. The security has been enhanced after the Election Commission announced the assembly election schedules particularly to enforce the model code of conduct.

Informing that the overall law and order situation in the state is peaceful by and large, key police and security officials have expressed hope that the forthcoming elections in Nagaland will be free from intimidation and undue influence.

'Anti-Rio' Hukavi Zhimomi joins NDPP

Former Zunheboto legislator Hukavi Zhimomi kept himself busy for the last 2-3 years working relentlessly with a few colleagues and 'sincere well wishers' to work for Solution to the Naga issue. He anchored the Forum of Like Minded Leaders and ex-Parliamentarians and even explored possibilities of launching a new party essentially to take on Neiphiu Rio-led dispensation.

However in the run up to the polls, he has joined the NDPP and is now 'Advisor' in the Neiphiu Rio-led outfit. Sources said the senior leader met Chief Minister Rio and NDPP president Chingwang Konyak at Dimapur on Saturday, Feb 4. "It was a cordial and home coming type meeting between old friends and colleagues," the source said.

For a long time Hukavi was a regionalist and hence a staunch NPF man too. But he was apparently let down when NPF decided to 'recommend' one young leader for the prestigious Zunheboto town assembly segment.

"I am sorry to state, Sir, that newcomers and 'outside' elements have been encouraged. A newcomer and a man with little and limited knowledge of a politically sensitive constituency has been encouraged perhaps for no good rhyme or reason," Hukavi reportedly told a senior NPF functionary.

On his decision to join the NDPP after he has been so much critical of the politics of Neiphiu Rio, Hukavi said in a jocular fashion, "Well opposing Mr Rio did not help much to bring the Solution, now I am in his team and party and I am sure we will convince each other to bring Solution".

However, on a serious note, he says, "My local circumstances and supporters' decision both in Zunheboto and Dimapur made me make such a move. We will work together for the general betterment of the people of Zunheboto and Nagaland".

Asked what he really thought of the BJP-NDPP (20:40 formula), he said, "With the media, I want to be honest. Either it is a master stroke, or all those who decided such a thing may have to come out with their own analyses. This alliance has changed the course of games".

Hukavi also said, "Chingwang Konyak is always a good well wisher. Now I am a dedicated soldier of the NDPP, I told Chingwang". To a question, he said, "I have no regrets for my decisions ...I am also happy to work closely with K T Sukhalu who is now NDPP nominee for Zunheboto town".

To another question, he said, "You may think, I am appreciating Rio just because I am in NDPP. But the fact of the matter is he is a good crisis manager and has handled all the challenges. So, we have to wish him luck and also work closely with him for better results".