Major Setback For Ajit Pawar’s NCP As All 7 Nagaland MLAs Join CM Neiphiu Rio’s NDPP

In Nagaland, all seven MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), previously the main opposition, have defected to the ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

Source : ANI

In a major political development in Nagaland, all seven MLAs of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have officially joined the ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. The Ajit-Pawar led NCP was the main and the biggest opposition party in the state and the MLAs jump to ruling NDPP will strengthen the party.

 

All seven NCP MLAs in Nagaland join CM Neiphiu Rio-led NDPP

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 31, 2025

In the 2023 assembly election in Sikkim, NDPP won a total of 25 seats, followed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which won 12 seats. Four independent MLAs also won the election in the 60-member assembly.

News agency PTI reported quoting an order issued by Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, the seven MLAs presented themselves and submitted formal letters, stating their decision to merge with the NDPP.

These MLAs are Namri Nchang of Tening, Picto Shohe of Atoizu, Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe of Wokha Town, Y Mankhao Konyak of Mon Town, A Pongshi Phom of Longleng, P Longon of Noklak, and S Toiho Yeptho of Suruhoto. The speaker noted that the merger met the constitutional requirement under the Tenth Schedule.

“In line with the Members of Nagaland Legislative Assembly (Disqualification on Ground of Defection) Rules, 2019, the speaker approved the merger and directed the assembly secretariat to update party affiliation records accordingly,” the order said.

Speaking at a press conference, state minister KG Kenye said, “This evening, the seven NCP MLAs submitted their merger application to the speaker, who has graciously accepted it. With this, the NDPP's strength in the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly rises from 25 to 32 members.”

He also emphasised that the NDPP's increased strength will further reinforce the leadership of Chief Minister Rio and help the government serve the people more effectively. 

(With inputs from PTI.)