Rio announces study committee on women's reservation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UNI AS RH RD SKB RK1146