In a significant political development in Nagaland, a total of 417 individuals led by Tumda Newme, former Independent candidate from the 6-Tening Assembly Constituency and founding member of the Peren Division NDPP, formally joined the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) on Monday. The mass induction, held at Newme’s residence in Jalukie, was organised under the supervision of the Peren District Congress Committee (DCC) and has been hailed by party leaders as a major momentum shift ahead of future elections. The Congress has described the joining as a reflection of growing public discontent against the current state government and what they called its “showmanship politics.” Senior party leaders said the development marks a change in political mood across Peren district, with more citizens expected to follow suit in the coming months.
Addressing supporters during the induction ceremony, Tumda Newme said he chose to align with the Congress because the people of Nagaland were feeling “deeply disillusioned” under the present regime. He criticised the government for prioritising image-building over grassroots issues, saying, “The rich are becoming richer while the poor continue to suffer. It is painful to witness the condition of our people.” Newme added that joining the Congress was his way of standing with ordinary citizens and supporting a party that, according to him, remains committed to service, justice and inclusivity.
NPCC President and Lok Sabha MP S. Supongmeren Jamir, welcoming the new members, called it a decisive moment for the party in Peren district. He urged the inductees to work with dedication toward strengthening the organisation ahead of the 2028 state elections. Jamir noted that the unity of all three former candidates from the Tening Assembly seat under the Congress banner sends a strong signal of collective resolve to serve the public interest. Jamir also appealed to voters to reject the practice of monetary inducements during elections. He emphasised that meaningful development can only be achieved by electing leaders committed to public welfare rather than those who rely on financial influence to secure votes.
