NPF stakes claims to form ministry in Nagaland

Kohima, Mar 9 (UNI) The Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN), led by Nagaland Peoples Front (NPF), today staked claim to form the next government in the state.

DAN, led by former Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio of NPF, met Governor K Sankaranarayanan at the Raj Bhawan here, and staked its claim to form the ministry.

Mr Rio claimed that he had 34 MLAs and would form the ministry.

In the just concluded election to the 60-member Assembly, NPF bagged 26 seats. Two of its alliance partners--BJP and NCP--garnered two seats each. Mr Rio also claimed that four Independents were with the alliance.

NPF's main rival Congress has so far bagged 23 seats. Result from Suruhoto constituency was awaited.

The Democratic Alliance of Nagaland was in power before President's Rule was imposed on Nagaland on January 3.

The state went to polls on March 5.

NPF leader and outgoing Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio had earlier said the people's verdict would go in his favour following imposition of Central Rule.

UNI AS-PB PL PK KN1745