In a significant political development in Nagaland, seven sitting MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) officially joined the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) on May 31, 2025. The move, welcomed by the NDPP leadership, has been hailed as a major reinforcement of the party’s regional base and a vote of confidence in its leadership.
The NDPP, in a statement issued Tuesday, said the inclusion of the legislators was a “deliberate and united decision” by the group, driven by a shared belief that the NDPP is better positioned to represent the hopes and concerns of the people of Nagaland. The party credited this political shift to the growing trust in the leadership of NDPP President Chingwang Konyak and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
“This development once again reaffirms the belief that a regional party truly comprehends the pulse of its people and is better equipped to represent their voices,” the NDPP said in its statement.
The party further emphasized that the addition of the seven legislators would strengthen its position at a time when the Indo-Naga political dialogue remains at a crucial stage. The NDPP reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to contribute constructively to the peace process, engaging actively with all stakeholders and the Government of India in pursuit of a final resolution.
The political realignment has raised questions about its impact on the ruling People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA), but the NDPP was quick to address any doubts. It reassured its alliance partner, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), that the new development does not alter the unity or functioning of the coalition.
“The NDPP reassures both the BJP and the people of Nagaland that the PDA Government will continue to operate with the same resolve and cohesion as it has over the last seven years. Our contribution to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will continue with renewed vigor,” the party said.
