Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has reiterated its opposition to the nomination of non-Nagas to the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC). In a press release, Dimapur Naga Students’ Union president Hinoto P. Aomi and general secretary Michael Kath informed that the issue was thoroughly deliberated at the first union assembly held on August 10, 2024.
DNSU said the house expressed dismay over continued disregard for its concerns despite their earlier appeals and the government’s own commitments to protect Naga rights. The union reminded the state government that Article 371(A) was “not a mere decoration”, but a fundamental right “secured through the blood and sacrifices of our predecessors.”
DNSU cautioned that any attempt to undermine the provision would be met with “fierce resistance” from the Naga people. Further, stating that the Nagaland Municipal Act (NMA), 2023, allows nomination of individuals with special knowledge, the union, however, maintained that there were plenty of qualified locals who could fill those roles.
The union said that inclusion of non-Nagas would be “a betrayal of the trust” placed on the leaders and a threat to Nagas’ very way of life. DNSU said that allowing outsiders to participate as decision-makers would be “an act of self-destruction.”
Meanwhile, DNSU also urged the newly elected DMC members to prioritise the welfare of the Naga people, respecting people’s sentiments and maintaining peace and harmony. It warned the state government and legislature that “any attempt to include non-Nagas in the DMC will be met with stern action from the DNSU and our tribal units.”
DNSU also appealed to all the non-locals to respect Naga people’s sentiments and refrain from interfering in their affairs. “DNSU and all its tribal units will not stand idly by, while our rights are eroded. We will take all necessary measures to protect our people and our way of life,” the union said.