The Naga People’s Front (NPF) has decided not to contest the ensuing parliamentary election and is likely to offer support to Congress candidate.
According to reports, NPF sources informed that it had received a letter from the Congress seeking support for its candidate, K L Chishi in the lone Lok Sabha seat in the State, polling which is scheduled to be held on April 11 next.
NPF sources said that the party was seriously considering the proposal of the Congress, adding that, however, no decision has been made so far.
Meanwhile, reacting to chief minister Neiphiu Rio’s statement during the PDA’s campaign at Ungma on Saturday, NPF legislature party spokesperson said it was all “Rio’s small thinking”.
Rio had ridiculed the NPF for not coming up even with a name as candidate for the Lok Sabha polls and that the opposition was planning to support the Congress candidate.
The spokesperson said whatever NPF decides, whether to set up a candidate or not, was not his lookout.
Meanwhile, the party is all set to kick-start the by-election campaign for Toshipokba Longkumer at Ungma on March 29.
Now the battle for the lone Lok Sabha seat will, be a straight fight between NDPP/PDA candidate Tokheho Yepthomi and Congress nominee, K L Chishi.
The last date for filling of nominations has been fixed on March 25 and scrutiny of nomination will be held on March 26. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is March 28.