Kohima, Nagaland, March 6 (HBTV): Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio addressed concerns over the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and the re-imposition of the Protected Area Permit (PAP). A debate during discussions in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly was sparked by a question from Nyamnei Konyak, MLA, regarding the status of the FMR, border fencing work orders, and official discussions with the Government of India.

Rio claimed that Nagaland remains a peaceful state with one of the lowest crime rates in the country and ‘no factional clashes between Naga political groups, the Government of India, or security forces.’

However, Rio expressed concern over the December 24, 2024, notification regulating FMR, which reduces the permissible movement zone from 16 km to 10 km. He said that the Assam Rifles had been designated as the implementing authority, with state police officers assisting in issuing movement passes. He noted that while Manipur and Mizoram have seen public protests against the order, Nagaland had ‘maintained composure despite rising apprehensions.’ 

Rio disclosed that discussions on the issue were held with the Centre on multiple occasions, including a video conference on January 6, 2025, and earlier meetings with chief secretaries. He raised the matter at the North Eastern Council meeting in Agartala, Tripura, on December 21, 2024. During the session, Rio requested the Centre to review and maintain the status quo on FMR and PAP, emphasizing that Nagaland had been unfairly categorized under the Disturbed Areas Act, leading to the imposition of AFSPA.

Despite these appeals, no formal response has been received from the Government of India. The Nagaland cabinet convened on January 6, 2025, where members, including representatives from the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO), expressed alarm at the situation. The chief minister stressed the urgent need for a resolution from the state assembly, highlighting that the collective voice of all 60 members would strengthen Nagaland’s position.

With the state government’s efforts yet to yield a response from the Centre, Rio proposed that senior members, along with ENPO representatives, should meet the Home Ministry to push for a reconsideration of the FMR restrictions and PAP imposition.