AWUMT said no authority has power to phase ward committees

Kohima: The All Ward Union Mokokchung Town (AWUMT) today asserted that “no authority has the power to disband/phase out the ward committees” and has resolved and reaffirmed to maintain these local bodies perpetually.

The decision was made during an emergency general meeting convened by the authorities of the 18 wards within their respective jurisdiction, stated the union in a press release.

Justifying the assertion, the AWUMT stated that the ward committee (Authority) is the institution formed and mandated by the general public for the welfare and security of the settlers or community in their respective wards.

“It is a purely voluntary and independent organisation constituted according to the traditional and customary practices of the Nagas,” highlighted the release issued by AWUMT Chairman, Lemasashi, and Secretary, Lanuwapang.

The release was issued in response to the letter from the Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, dated September 11, pursuant to a State Cabinet meeting’s minutes.

Meanwhile, the AWUMT also further stated that if the government is of the view that the ward authorities duplicate the functioning of the Municipal or Town Councillors, the competent authority should specifically clarify the “areas of duplication in order to avoid friction and confusion between the two entities.”

The union also expressed its solidarity with the Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Council (AKMWC) and supports the resolutions passed during the Association’s October 30 meeting with ward and colony chairmen or representatives.