Kohima, October 13 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed its support for the State Government’s ongoing enumeration exercise of four non-Naga tribes, describing it as a necessary initiative to safeguard the rights, privileges, and future of Nagaland’s inhabitants.
In a statement issued today, the NSF termed the exercise a “farsighted measure” aimed at protecting the political, economic, and social fabric of the State against challenges arising from unchecked migration and illegal influx.
The Federation also expressed concern that four tribes have reportedly declined to participate in the enumeration process.
Emphasising that the exercise is neither divisive nor discriminatory, the NSF said it seeks to identify individuals who settled in the State prior to December 1, 1963, along with their direct descendants, to ensure that genuine inhabitants receive the rights and benefits to which they are entitled.
The issue of enumeration exercise is currently a subject matter in Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench.
Highlighting the issue of illegal entry and infiltration from neighbouring states, the NSF cautioned that non-Nagas continue to enter the State illegally and, in some instances, obtain official documents and access quotas or privileges meant for legitimate inhabitants.
The Federation urged the Government to strengthen enforcement of the Inner Line Regulation (ILR), improve border vigilance, and adopt stringent measures to curb illegal influx.
Defends its ILP Commission
The NSF also defended the role of the Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC), taking “strong exception” to the the manner in which certain political elements have attempted to mislead the public and discrediting ILRC) as a “mere committee.”
The Federation pointed that the ILRC was constituted by the NSF’s highest decision-making body, the Federal Assembly, and carries the mandate of all federating units.
Undermining the ILRC’s credibility would weaken the unified voice of Naga students and youth, asserted the statement issued by NSF President Mteisuding and General Secretary Kenilo Kent.
According to the Federation, the ILRC was formed after decades of experience and in response to persistent lapses in the implementation of the ILR and growing challenges posed by illegal migration. The NSF cautioned against politicising or ridiculing its purpose, describing such acts as harmful to the collective Naga interest.
The statement further called on individuals and organisations to exercise restraint and avoid statements that could divide the Naga community. It clarified that the Enumeration Exercise is intended as a protective mechanism for rightful inhabitants and is not directed against any specific community.
Reiterating its long-standing commitment to safeguarding the rights, traditions, and heritage of the Naga people, the NSF affirmed that it would not compromise on its founding principles nor allow political opportunism to derail efforts to secure a self-determined Naga society.
The Federation concluded by urging the Government, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to work together to ensure the successful completion of the Enumeration Exercise.
