The committee said that Naga women are only asking for their constitutional rights and that it is the duty of the government to protect their rights. It said that necessary official representations from the JACWR have been placed before the state government to abide by its own notifications and the state election commission to immediately publish the election program in public interest and in consonance with the Gauhati high court's order.
The JACWR stated that it stands by the representation submitted to the CM, which was based on the judgment of the high court on the issue of reservation for women in municipalities and town councils. "It is most unfortunate that many Naga leaders are questioning the legality of the high court order and harping on infringement of Art 371(A), which has no connection with the process of election for governance of towns," it said.
Stating that Naga women are very clear about the provisions of Art 371 (A), the committee said many leaders were bent on misleading the public by alleging that the JACWR statement is ambiguous and has undermined the rights of the Nagas.
"Instead of accusing the JACWR, these leaders must read the high court order dated October 21, 2011. It is not a creation of Naga women, but the considered judgment of the high court after a patient hearing was given to the state government, the state election commission and the petitioner," the JACWR stated.
It further stated that if the leaders feel aggrieved, they should approach the court and may even suggest amendment of the Indian Constitution.
However, it expressed surprise that till date none of them have filed any appeal to the high court against the said judgment.