Bill to set up Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority tabled in Assembly

Kohima -- The Nagaland government withdrew the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority Bill and introduced a revised version during the Monsoon Session kickoff on Tuesday. Speaker Sharingain Longkumer announced the Bill would be considered and passed on Thursday, with members asked to submit amendments or clarifications by Wednesday 2 pm.

The bill's introduction stems from a tripartite agreement between the Centre, the state government, and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation (ENPO). ENPO, representing eight tribes in six eastern districts, has long sought a separate administrative body, citing neglect since 2010. The ENPO initially agreed to statehood under the FNTA framework but later endorsed it.

The earlier Bill faced concerns over powers and legality, leading to a revised proposal after stakeholder consultations. Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton withdrew the original Bill, after which it was re-introduced by the state government. Five other Bills were also tabled on the first day, including the Nagaland Goods and Services Tax Bill 2026, the Nagaland Town & Country Planning Bill 2026, and the Nagaland Paramedical Council Bill 2026.