NPF Legislature Party meet this morning as Nagaland CM Zeliang quits

Ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) Legislature Party will meet in Kohima this morning to elect a new leader following the resignation of Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang. He resigned following widespread protests in the state triggered by the government decision to reserve 33 per cent seats for women in urban local bodies. 

A statement from the Chief Minister's Office said Mr Zeliang has stepped down and a consensus leader will be chosen at the NPF Legislature Party meeting. Neiphiu Rio, former Chief Minister and sole MP from the state, appears



to be a front-runner for the Chief Ministership. 

Governor PB Acharya accepted Zeliang's resignation and asked him to continue till further arrangements are made. The NPF Legislature Party meeting will be followed by a meeting of Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) in Kohima.In the 60-member Assembly, Mr Rio is said to be commanding the support of 49 MLAs, including eight Independents.

At least three MLAs, including Speaker Chotisuh Sazo, are with party President Shurhozelie Liezitsu. The BJP has four MLAs in the state.