DAN govt. still strong despite seven desertions

Kohima, Oct 26 (UNI) The Democratic Alliance of Nagaland(DAN) today ruled out any threat to the government following the withdrawal of support by seven legistators.

''There is no threat to the government following the withdrawal of support by the legislators. We will fight for all the sixty seats in the coming Assembly elections,'' Nagaland Peoples' Front(NPF) president Shurhozelie told newspersons on the sidelines of a function for the protection of wildlife.

Mr Shurhozelie claimed that the NPF, leading coalition partner of DAN, had gained popularity for the development done by the party-led government.

He said the number of NPF candidates was much more than those of the Congress, but the decision to select the nominees by the party's Election Committee was still awaited.

Earlier, the strength of the ruling coalition had reduced to 36 in the 60-member Assembly following the withdrawal of support by JD(U) legislator Deo Nukhu last Wednesday.

Besides, the Assembly's effective strength fell to 56 following the resignation of four NPF legislators. Former Ministers K Therie, Z Obed, Vatsu Meru and N Yeangphong Konyak, who left the party, also resigned from the House last month.

Independent legislator Khutovi Sema withdrew his support from the DAN in August. JD(U)'s Huska Sumi had announced withdrawal of support to DAN in September.

The coalition still enjoys majority with 36 members (NPF 28, BJP five and Independents 3).

The Opposition Congress has a strength of 17 members. Besides, there are two JD(U) and an Independent members in the House.

Assembly elections might be held in February 2008.

UNI