The Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA) Bill, 2026, which aimed to empower six districts housing seven tribes in Nagaland, has been postponed to the next emergent session. Initially set for consideration and passage on March 27, the Bill was deferred following requests from the Government of India, Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO), and Eastern Nagaland Legislators’ Union (ENLU).
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio highlighted the necessity of addressing the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) provisions before moving forward with the FNTA Bill. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is currently reviewing the issue of granting legislative powers to the FNTA, seeking the opinion of the Solicitor General of India.
The state government has been asked to await the MHA’s feedback before taking further action on the Bill. The ENLU has urged the government to defer the Bill until all concerns are resolved, emphasizing the need for clarity on the MoA.
The FNTA agreement aims to establish the authority for six districts and devolve powers over 46 subjects. The ENPO has long advocated for a separate territory or statehood for the eastern districts, inhabited by seven tribes. The state government is committed to implementing the MoA provisions signed in February 2026 and aims to inaugurate the FNTA by April 2026.
