Dimapur, November 8 (MExN): The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has expressed appreciation to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and the State Government in response to what it described as their “steadfast commitmen”t towards upholding the rights of the indigenous peoples and preserving the rich heritage of Nagaland.
In a statement, the DNSU noted that during the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Tenyimi Union Dimapur, the Chief Minister underscored the need for unity, responsible governance and safeguarding indigenous rights.
He reiterated that indigenous status is tied strictly to ancestral lineage and settlement within one’s village jurisdiction, warning that false certification would invite criminal prosecution, the union held.
This, the DNSU maintained, also addresses apprehensions over alleged issuance of indigenous certificates to non-Nagas, including Nepalis, Gorkhas and plain people residing in urban areas.
The CM emphasised that indigenous identity is non-transferable beyond one’s native village or district and that legal frameworks would be enforced to prevent misuse, it added.
The DNSU also further welcomed CM Rio’s assurance that any further steps in the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) process would be carried out fairly, in accordance with the recent court verdict.
The CM’s position, it added, affirms the Government’s commitment to procedural fairness and protection of the interests of genuine indigenous inhabitants.
Meanwhile, the DNSU also acknowledged the Government’s effort to strengthen the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime, including new guidelines and the launch of an online portal.
These steps reflect the State’s intent to preserve Nagaland’s identity and regulate external influences, while seeking cooperation from civil society, student bodies and village authorities for effective enforcement, it stated.
Reaffirming its support, the DNSU said it stands with the Government’s initiatives to protect the rights and identity of Nagaland’s indigenous communities and expressed hope that responsible governance and inclusive development will continue.
