KOHIMA: A delegation led by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah to express their concerns about the potential impact of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) on the religious rights of Christians. 

Assuring the delegation, Amit Shah mentioned that the Union Government is contemplating an exemption for Christians and certain tribal areas from the proposed UCC. These assurances come at a time when even some senior leaders within the BJP have raised concerns about the UCC's interference with tribal rights.

During the meeting, the Nagaland delegation informed Amit Shah about the concerns raised in the state and emphasized the guarantees provided by Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India. "In response, Amit Shah unequivocally assured the delegation that the central government is actively considering exempting Christians and select tribal areas from the scope of the 22nd Law Commission's initiative," stated government spokesperson and minister KG Kenye in a release on Thursday.

The Nagaland government's statement added, "This assurance brings great relief, as it will prevent major disruptions."  The discussions surrounding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) gained renewed attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for it in his recent address in Bhopal. Additionally, the committee appointed by the Uttarakhand government to draft the UCC has submitted its report to the state government, and there are indications that the central government might adopt the same draft.

Regarding the Naga peace talks, the statement from the Nagaland government emphasized the need for prompt resolution, as the issue has been persisting for an "unreasonable period of time."

Regarding the proposal by the Centre to establish an autonomous council named the Frontier Naga Territory, encompassing the six eastern districts of Nagaland, KG Kenye stated that negotiations are reaching a conclusion.
"This phase will outline the roadmap, defining the ultimate status and structure of the new entity. Henceforth, it will be a tripartite agreement involving the state government at all stages, ensuring a comprehensive and final resolution," Kenye said.

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