A major political realignment has unfolded across Nagaland as all five elected representatives belonging to the National People's Party decided to merge their legislative group into the governing Naga People's Front. Following this collective transition, the NPF has substantially reinforced its legislative dominance, lifting its tally to 39 members within the 60-member state assembly. The formal integration ceremony was concluded on Thursday at Dimapur with NPF president and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio presiding over the event, alongside party secretary general Achumbemo Kikon and multiple senior functionaries.
Official Confirmation From the Assembly Secretariat
Formalizing the change in legislative allegiance, the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Secretariat released an updated document outlining party affiliations. The roster formally cataloged five legislators under the NPF banner: NPP state chief and Moka constituency representative A Nyamnyei Konyak, Arkakong legislator Nuklutoshi, Seyochung-Sitimi representative C Kipili Sangtam, Kohima Town lawmaker Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, and Thonoknyu representative Benei M Lamthiu. These elected leaders communicated their consolidation with the NPF under the statutory framework of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, establishing the transition as operational from October 1.
Regional Power Base Expands
Receiving the incoming leaders, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio stated that their choice to enter the NPF reflected the aspirations of the Naga community while aiding the broader growth of the regional political outfit. This induction arrives as an additional boost for the NPF, coming on the heels of the earlier legislative merger involving the NDPP group, thereby solidifying the ruling bench's grip over state politics.
Current Composition of the 60-Seat House
Following this organizational shuffle, the distribution of strength in the 60-seat legislature shows the NPF at the helm with 39 legislators. The Bharatiya Janata Party maintains 12 members, whereas the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) alongside the Republican Party of India (Athawale) retain two seats apiece. The Janata Dal (United) accounts for a single lawmaker, while four legislators function as Independents across the assembly.
