Kohima: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed deep concern over the proposed inclusion of non-Nagas as government nominees in the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) of Nagaland.
In a formal representation addressed to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, signed by NSF President Medovi Rhi and Assistant General Secretary Kenilo Kent, emphasised the importance of indigenous Naga representation in local governance.
“The Urban Local bodies serve as pivotal platforms for local governance, where decisions impacting the day-to-day lives of citizens are made. For these decisions to genuinely reflect the needs and aspirations of the people, it is imperative that the representatives are closely aligned with the local indigenous communities,” the NSF said.
According to the student body, indigenous representation is not just about presence but about ensuring that the unique identity, culture, and historical context of the Naga people are upheld and preserved.
The NSF said that it firmly believes that reservations in the ULBs should be exclusively for indigenous Nagas of Nagaland state. “This is essential to maintain the integrity and agency of the Naga people in decision-making processes at the local level. The inclusion of non-indigenous individuals in these reserved categories dilutes the representation of the Naga community and undermines the very purpose of these reservations,” they said.
In their representation, the NSF highlighted that the essence of their stance revolves around the preservation of Naga identity, culture, and governance. They argued that the indigenous identity of the Nagas is intrinsically linked to their land, traditions, and self-governance.
“Allowing non-indigenous individuals to occupy positions meant for indigenous representatives poses a threat to the preservation of our unique cultural and social fabric. It is crucial that our governance structures reflect our identity and cater to the needs and aspirations of the indigenous Naga populace,” the NSF added.
While advocating for the rights and representation of indigenous Nagas, the NSF said that it upholds the principles of inclusivity and equality. They also emphasised that inclusivity must not come at the cost of compromising the rights of the indigenous Naga people.
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The NSF stressed the need to strike a balance where all communities can thrive while protecting and prioritizing the rights of the indigenous populations in their respective domains.
The NSF urged the Chief Minister to reconsider the candidature of non-Nagas for government nominee positions in the ULBs. They appealed for the support of the Chief Minister in ensuring that the reservations within the ULBs remain exclusively for indigenous Naga individuals of Nagaland state, thereby safeguarding their identity, culture, and governance.
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