Rio announces study committee on women reservation

Kohima, Sep 12 (UNI) Following protest by Congress members in the Assembly on the implementation of 33 percent reservation for women in municipal elections, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced a study committee headed by Urban Development minister Shurhozelie.

During the second session yesterday, Congress member Apok Jamir initiated the issue informing that all the male members of Mokokchung municipal council strongly protested women reservation in next election, scheduled for October 10.

He said the government should give a second thought on the implementation of the Act.

K L Chishi, another Congress member, supported Jamir and informed the House that Nagaland is well protected under Article 371 (A) of the Constitution of India and no law passed in the Parliament could be applicable in the state until the Assembly endorse the law.

He also reminded the House that Nagas have their customary laws to protect women and no Central law is required for the purpose.

In the reply, Mr Rio announced a committee headed by Shurhozelie.

'' Committee will discuss the matter with various civil societies in Mokokchung to hammer out a solution, if no solution comes out then we will go by the Parliament Act'', he informed.

UNI AS RH RD 1122