A kind of history has been written in Nagaland. The first two female MLAs in the state are Hekani Jakhalu and Salhoutuonuo Kruse from the National Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), a coalition partner of the BJP.
Although women nominees kept trying their luck, Nagaland, which gained statehood in 1963, has never elected a female legislator in the past.
On the Dimapur-III seat, Hekani Jakhalu defeated Azheto Zhimomi of the Lok Jansakhi Party (Ram Vilas) with a margin of 1536 votes.
Salhoutuonuo Kruse won the Western Angami constituency by 7 votes over independent contender Keneizhakho Nakhro.
In Nagaland, Hekani Jakhalu and Salhoutuonuo Kruse are the first two female legislators in 60 years.
Hekani Jakhalu
The 48- year- old Hekani Jakhalu was elected in the Dimapur-III district which was reserved for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates. On an NDPP ticket, she won.
“I will live up to all the expectations and try my best, “said Hikani Jakhalu to her jubilant fans in the teeming Dimapur town in a brief speech.
She also said “my fortune is excellent. That wasn’t just a battle for a seat. Women were the subject. Our legislative Assembly will welcome a woman for the first time this term. From Kohima, my rival also prevailed. For woman to serve as role models for other women, doors have opened. Also, they have the capacity for lofty aspiration.”
“ Nagas are a native ethnic group. The neighborhood was quite patriarchal. Concerns over the 33% reservation for woman also caused conflict in urban areas.” A farther statement was made by her.
Jakhalu described her political philosophy as, “I want to first research how women are treated in Nagaland. I want to work very hard for young people, girls, and employment.”
Salhoutuonuo Kruse
Salhoutuonuo Kruse, the second female candidate for the NDPP, was elected MLA hours after Ms Jakhalu. In order to win the Western Angami seat, she narrowly defeated independent Keneizhakho Nakhro by seven votes.
Salhoutuonuo Kruse announced her victory on Twitter. “We have written a history today! This historic victory is ours. I owe this victory to God Almighty, and to my citizens of #8WesternAngami. I feel very much grateful for everyone’s encouragement. I thank everyone for make this possible. I look forward to serving you. #KamPara.” She spoke.
Since it becomes the 16th state of the union on December 1, 1963, Nagaland is the only state in India that has never elected a woman to the legislature. In 1964, it had its initial assembly elections.
There had never been a woman elected to the Nagaland Legislative assembly in any of the previous 13 elections for local assemblies.
