Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has sought the intervention of Nagaland governor on pressing issues including repeal of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), early settlement of the Naga political issue, implementation of ILP and infrastructure development.
In a representation submitted to the governor of Nagaland, DNSU president Hinoto P Aomi and general secretary Michael Kath expressed deep concern over the continued imposition of AFSPA in Nagaland and the protracted delay in achieving a final and honourable resolution to the Naga political issue.
AFSPA: The union said that continued presence of AFSPA “perpetuates a climate of mistrust and alienation,” hindering the process of peace and reconciliation.
DNSU stated that AFSPA had repeatedly been condemned by national and international human rights organizations for its inherent violation of civil liberties. The student body said that the tragic incident in Oting, Mon district, stands as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of AFSPA’s unchecked powers. DNSU demanded the immediate and unconditional repeal of AFSPA from Nagaland.
DNSU also appealed to the governor to advocate for the immediate and unconditional repeal of AFSPA from Nagaland.
Naga political issue: DNSU said protracted negotiations have created a sense of frustration and disillusionment among the Naga populace, particularly the youth. It stated that unresolved issue continued to impede the socio-economic development of Nagaland and the region.
DNSU urged the government of India and the Naga political groups (NPGs) to expedite the peace process and arrive at an early and honourable settlement that respected the unique history, identity, and aspirations of the Naga people.
It also appealed to the governor to urge the Government of India and NPGs to prioritize the early and amicable resolution of the Naga political issue.
ILP: With regard to implementation of Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime in Dimapur, Niuland and Chumoukedima, the union said the issue was important for the protection of the indigenous Naga people and the preservation of their unique socio-economic fabric.
DNSU said Dimapur, as the commercial hub of Nagaland, holds a crucial position in the state’s economy. The union maintained that a significant portion, estimated to be nearly 90% of the economic activities in Dimapur, were controlled by non-local entities.
Acknowledging the contributions of various communities, the union stressed the need to address the growing concerns regarding the exploitation of indigenous resources and erosion of Naga people’s economic rights.
DNSU expressed regret that under the guise of minority rights, certain non-local elements were demanding exemptions from ILP regulations. The union said the demand, if entertained, would severely undermine the ve
ry purpose of ILP, which was to safeguard the interests of the indigenous Naga population.
Therefore, DNSU appealed to the governor to expedite the immediate and comprehensive implementation of the ILP regime in Dimapur.
The union urged the governor to reject any demands for exemptions from ILP, especially those made under the pretext of minority rights.
DNSU appealed to the governor to take stringent measures to curb the prevalence of the “benami” system and ensure transparency in business operations.
Infrastructure development: DNSU said rapidly increasing vehicular population, coupled with the existing road infrastructure, has led to severe bottlenecks, causing significant delays, economic losses, and environmental pollution.
The union expressed belief that immediate intervention was crucial to address the pressing issue. DNSU has, therefore, appealed for infrastructure developments in Dimapur including a flyover and road connecting Amar Mill to National Highway.
It said that persistent traffic congestion at key junctions within Dimapur has become unbearable. DNSU said a strategically planned flyover would significantly improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance overall connectivity.
Urging the governor to expedite construction of the road connecting Amar Mill to NH, the union asserted that completion of the said road would serve as a vital alternative route, diverting a substantial portion of traffic away from the city’s core arterial roads.
Acknowledging infrastructure development required substantial resources and careful planning, the union, however, stressed that those projects were essential for the sustainable growth and prosperity of Dimapur.
Therefore, DNSU urged the governor to prioritise those projects and allocate the necessary resources for their timely implementation.