BJP MLA Mmhonlumo Kikon was on Friday removed from the post of parliamentary secretary, Labour & Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Border Affairs by Chief Minister TR Zeliang.
Kikon is currently attending the Young Leaders Connect Summit in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. When contacted by a local newspaper Kikon replied:
“I am not aware of it! I just saw it in social media! It’s alright! I serve at the pleasure of the CM! So he may drop me as he pleases,” Kikon replied.
Cabinet secretary, RB Thong informed through an order that the chief minister of Nagaland was “pleased” to order the removal of the parliamentary secretary concerned from his position “with immediate effect”. No further explanation/information was provided.
What could be the reason for this sudden and harsh action by the TR Zeliang Government?
Anti-Government activities: Kikon was probably removed for his alleged Anti-Government activities. During the revolt against the leadership of T.R. Zeliang in January 2015, Mmhonlumo Kikon had sided with Neiphiu Rio’s group.
Oil Issue: There has been reports in some quarters which suggested that Mmhonlumo had been backing the filing of PIL by Lotha Hoho against the policy of the state government on Oil and Natural Gas. The chief minister was not happy with this.
What does BJP Nagaland have to say?
Nagaland state unit BJP president Visasolie Lhoungu revealed that he was not aware about the reason behind sacking of Kikon. Lhoungu said the Central leadership might not appreciate the decision by the Chief Minister.