Dimapur: In anticipation of the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) elections in Nagaland, scheduled for June 26 this year, the Naga Students Federation (NSF) has emphasized “the paramount importance of indigenous representation,” stating it as crucial for safeguarding the interests and aspirations of the indigenous Naga populace.
According to the NSF, the evolving democratic landscape of Nagaland necessitates ensuring that the voices of the indigenous Naga people are not only heard but also authentically represented in decision-making processes.
“As Nagaland’s democratic landscape evolves, it becomes imperative to safeguard the interests and aspirations of the indigenous Naga populace. It is incumbent upon us to ensure that the voices of our people are not only heard but also authentically represented in decision-making processes,” the NSF stated in a statement released on Saturday, May 11.
They also asserted that ULBs serve as instrumental platforms for encouraging local governance and driving development initiatives within urban areas.
The NSF advocated for the reservation of contestation in the upcoming ULB elections solely for indigenous Naga individuals, emphasizing the significance of being “Nagas by blood, not by adoption.” Furthermore, they advocate for the exclusion of women married to non-locals, along with their offspring, from contesting in these elections.
“This stance emanates from a deep-seated understanding of the intrinsic connection between governance, culture, and identity, which collectively shape the socio-political landscape of Nagaland,” the release stated.
It also stressed the imperative of exclusive indigenous representation. “This advocacy extends beyond mere participation; it underscores the imperative of exclusive indigenous representation in these electoral contests.”
The NSF urged all stakeholders, including electoral authorities and citizens, to uphold the sanctity of indigenous representation.
“The NSF emphasizes the need to safeguard the essence of Naga identity and agency in the decision-making processes at the local level,” it said.
It also stressed that it is through such concerted efforts that the authentic articulation of the Naga people’s aspirations and interests can be ensured.
“As guardians of Naga interests, the NSF remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting inclusivity, equality, and the preservation of indigenous rights across all spheres of governance,” affirmed the NSF release signed by its president Medovi Rhi and General Secretary, Chumben Khuvung.
“We reaffirm our collective resolve to nurture a democratic ethos rooted in the principles of justice, equity, and empowerment for all,” it concluded.
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