Independent candidate for the ensuing Lok Sabha election in Nagaland, Hayithung Bill Lotha, has appealed to the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO) to reconsider its decision to abstain from election.
In a letter to ENPO president, Bill Lotha reminded that in a democratic set up every single vote was very precious, adding that the power of ‘ballot’ was the “ultimate voice” in a democratic government.
He called upon every Eastern Naga to realise that “no vote – means no FNT, but if you vote – you secure FNT”.
Without exercising their Constitutional right to vote, Lotha expressed apprehension that the next government at the Centre “will brush aside and keep our dream FNT” in cold storage.
“But if you vote and show the power of your votes, it is understood that the next government will seriously take up the FNT issue to its logical conclusion,” he said.
The independent candidate appealed to the Eastern Nagas to cast their votes in his favour so as an elected independent Lok Sabha MP, he would give his letter of support to the next government with the “condition that the most burning FNT issue which holds so dear to the Eastern Nagas” be fulfilled.
In view of the vegetation clearance and maintenance programme of 33kV, 66 kV and 132kV Transmission lines under Kohima transmission division scheduled from April 22, 2024 to May 20, 2024, the power department has informed that there would be total shutdown of power from 8am to 3pm daily to facilitate smooth execution of the activity.
In a press release, transmission division Kohima executive engineer Namheu Khate Zelaing informed that Southern Angami areas under 33kV Jakhama feeder would be affected on April 22 & 23; areas under 33kV KRM-I feeder on April 24 & 25; areas under 33kV KRM-II feeder on April 26 & 27; Zubza and Lalmati area under 33 kV Lalmati & 33kV AP-I feeder on from April 29 to May 1; Chakhabama & Chozuba area under 33kV Chakhabama feeder from May 2-4; Northern Angami area under 33kV Botsa feeder from May 6-20; Phek and Kiphire districts under 66kV Tuensang- Kiphire feeder from April 25-30 and Phek District under 132kV Kiphire-Meluri feeder from May 1-4.