DIMAPUR: Naga People’s Front (NPF) on September 17 organised a seminar cum workshop for its Press Bureau, Central Frontal Wings and Cells at the party’s Central Headquarters, focusing on political communication, public outreach, legal awareness, grassroots engagement and organisational preparedness.
Addressing the gathering, NPF secretary general and advisor Achumbemo Kikon stressed that party workers must have a clear understanding of government policies, programmes and development initiatives to communicate them effectively to the public. He said opposition allegations require timely and factual responses, as delayed clarification allows opposing narratives to take root. He emphasised that communication of government’s work must extend from the Central Office to divisions, areas, town wards, frontal organisations and cells.
Kikon called for a more professional and responsive social media approach, noting younger voters are an increasingly important electorate. He urged systematic use of digital platforms, distinguishing between issues needing immediate response and those requiring verification before a considered reply. On the FCRA amendment issue, he clarified that the matter remains before the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) and has not reached final resolution. On the Vande Mataram issue, he urged workers to explain the relevance of Article 371A and the legislative process to avoid misattribution to the State Government or party. He also highlighted the party’s historical attention to the eastern region, citing establishment of the Department of Development of Underdeveloped Areas in 2003.
He further called for focused preparation for NPF Foundation Day on October 21, urging all organisational structures to participate actively to strengthen unity and functioning.
Vice president Lanukaba spoke on the historical circumstances of NPF’s formation, tracing divisions among Nagas to the Naga People’s Convention (NPC) in 1957 and its 3rd General Convention at Mokokchung in 1959. He said disagreement over taking the 16 point proposal to Delhi without underground representatives led to the first division among Nagas. He added that under A. Kevichusa, the Nagaland Democratic Party (DPN) was organised with the cock as symbol and motto “Fedi Non Armis,” registered with the Election Commission of India in December 1963.
Press secretary Atou Liezietsu stressed that the Press Bureau is the official communication channel connecting NPF with media and public, under the principle “One Party, One Voice, One Channel.” He urged divisions, frontal organisations and cells to route central policy matters through the Bureau to avoid confusion. He said the Bureau’s responsibilities include communicating policies, responding to political developments and publishing a bi monthly magazine for political education and cohesion.
Media secretary to CM, Ayieno Kechü, said political communication should be continuous and serve as a means of listening to public feedback. She noted constructive reactions from social media are compiled and shared with the CM and senior officers, and cautioned against unverified or AI manipulated content.
Social Media Co Convenor Janbemo Humtsoe stressed the importance of setting up social media members at divisional and constituency levels, ensuring proper verification of shared news to avoid misinformation.
Legal Cell Convenor Adv. Dr. Povotso Lohe outlined the cell’s role in providing legal guidance, assisting in court cases, election petitions and constitutional matters. He announced plans to establish legal cells in all 17 NPF divisions in the first phase and hold regular legal awareness programmes.
Minority Wing president Bishnu Bhattacharjee emphasised grassroots organisation and year round community contact, with initial focus on Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Kohima. He proposed livelihood support initiatives, including opportunities for at least 50 youth in Dimapur through driving licences, permits and employment avenues.
Public Grievances Cell Convenor Z. Neikuo Lhousa said the cell acts as a bridge between leadership and public, channelling grievances to appropriate leaders. Medical Cell Convenor Dr. Kaito Jakhalu outlined plans for grassroots healthcare outreach, while Central Farmers’ Wing president Y. Vikheho Swu called for stronger support to agriculture and village livelihoods, urging awareness and implementation of One District One Product (ODOP).
The programme began with invocation by K. Mangyangpula Chang (Apu), working president, Central Women Wing, and concluded with vote of thanks by N. Akok Longkumer, president, Central Youth Wing, and benediction by S. Akho Leyri, vice president (Administration).
