Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, MAY 13 (NPN): A simmering internal conflict within the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) over the past nearly two years has now escalated into a major political crisis, leading to the filing of a no-confidence motion against chairperson Hukheto Yepthomi.
The motion was submitted on Monday (May 11) by 12 councillors, including six from the BJP and six from the NPF, led by deputy chairperson Imlinaro Ezung. The group has moved against the current leadership headed by Hukheto Yepthomi, who is backed by 11 NPF councillors, including two former NPP members who later joined the NPF. The crisis appears to have emerged from long-standing dissatisfaction within the council, financial matters and especially the chairperson’s dealing with BJP councillors.
Nagaland BJP president Benjamin Yepthomi expressed concern over the sidelining of BJP members and stressed the need for stable leadership to ensure smooth governance and better public service delivery.
Speaking to this reporter, Benjamin Yepthomi said the BJP councillors’ decision to support the deputy chairperson’s group was not based on a single issue but on frustration that had continued since the municipal elections.
He alleged that BJP councillors were not properly consulted on council matters and were denied opportunities to function effectively within the civic body. According to him, party members felt ignored despite being part of an alliance arrangement.
“They weren’t even given a chair to sit on or allowed to function properly. Naturally, they felt sidelined,” Yepthomi said. He said that as BJP state president, it was his responsibility to listen to party workers and address their grievances.
He said the situation had remained unresolved for over two years, eventually leading BJP councillors to extend support to the deputy chairperson.
He also admitted that several issues within municipal affairs needed urgent attention, particularly matters related to public grievances and civic administration.
“We are elected to serve the people, not for personal benefit. Public concerns should remain our priority,” he said.
At the same time, the BJP leader cautioned against frequent changes in leadership, saying instability within the council would negatively affect governance and public services.
“If leadership changes every few months, it will only create more problems. The people want a peaceful and stable office,” he added.
Benjamin Yepthomi further stated that the BJP would support any leadership capable of ensuring stable and efficient functioning of the DMC.
Meanwhile, no NPF leader could be contacted for comment on the developments.