The area was transferred to Naga Hills District of United Assam state until 1962 after which it became part of present day Nagaland.

They argue that the region which is already economically backward, is further being ignored by the state government and is given a step-motherly treatment.

The demand has strong support in the region and is based on popular grassroots resolution encompassing every village council and tribal council, students organisations and general public of Eastern Nagaland.

[5][6] ENPO delegation has met the Union Home Minister Amit Shah who said that the grievances and request for a separate entity was understood.

He urged the Home Ministry to provide a status on the memorandum between the governments of India, Nagaland and ENPO.