Nagaland: DUCCF conference stresses unity, urban responsibility

Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) held its 5th General Conference on Saturday at Town Hall, Dimapur, with speakers stressing unity, stronger community bonds and coordinated urban governance.
The new DUCCF team for 2026-2028 will be led by president Zasivikho Zakiesato and general secretary Bokato Wotsa, along with other office bearers.
In his presidential address, Zasivikho Zakiesato said the conference marked a moment of reflection, renewal and resolve. He described 2023-2025 as a defining phase during which DUCCF emerged as a united voice of urban councils committed to public interest, grassroots governance and democratic values. He said DUCCF continued to serve as a bridge between the people and the administration, and among diverse urban communities.
Highlighting rapid urbanisation, he pointed to challenges in infrastructure, land, sanitation, security and social harmony, stressing that sustainable development required institutions to work together.
Addressing the gathering as special guest, Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) chairman Hukheto Yepthomi lauded DUCCF for its consistent efforts, saying the federation had repeatedly highlighted the importance of unity and progress in Dimapur. He noted that in the absence of an elected DMC for a long period, civil society organisations like DUCCF had shouldered key responsibilities in the city.
Acknowledging DUCCF’s role as a pressure group representing urban councils, Yepthomi expressed appreciation for its constructive advice and interventions. He appealed to DUCCF and other civil society organisations to extend support and cooperation to the DMC, stressing their shared responsibility towards the people of Dimapur.
Expressing concern over the gradual erosion of community spirit, Yepthomi observed that in a fast-growing urban centre like Dimapur, the sense of community was weakening. While traditional Naga bonds rooted in clan, village and tribe remained strong, he said these sometimes fostered tribalism. He added that Dimapur had the opportunity to redefine community beyond such identities and build a more inclusive society.
Lamenting that many residents no longer knew their neighbours, he warned that weakening community bonds contributed to isolation, mental health concerns and loss of purpose, especially among youth. Citing World Health Organization findings on rising loneliness in urban areas, he suggested developing public parks and common spaces, organising community events, and strengthening neighbourhood networks to bridge generational and cultural gaps.
Speaking as guest of honour, Naga Council Dimapur president G.K. Rengma said tribalism continued to prevail among Nagas. Referring to Dimapur as the gateway of Nagaland, he said that while not all tribes were part of apex bodies like Naga Hoho, DNSU or Naga Women Hoho, all Nagas were included in NCD under its motto “All in One.” He urged civil society organisations in Dimapur not to remain passive but to work collectively for the city’s betterment.
Pointing out that Dimapur currently had 97 colonies, he challenged the newly elected DUCCF team to recognise four more, taking the total to 101.
On the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act, he noted that the law had been in force for 37 years and questioned its achievements, particularly in Dimapur. He said an NCD committee had submitted representations since 2022 seeking removal of the Act in Dimapur on a trial basis, clarifying that the demand was based on practical study and not aimed at supporting the government or opposing the Church.
The programme was chaired by DUCCF executive member Imkongnukshi Imchen, invocation offered by Town Baptist Church pastor Rev. Vilodi Sakhrie, and welcome address by DUCCF vice-president Tongzuk Pongen. The conference also marked the launch of DUCCF’s annual magazine by the special guest.
Short speeches were delivered by AKMWC president and Nagaland Urban Council Federation chairman Thejao Sekhose, and All Ward Union Mokokchung Town president Limasashi Ao. Special numbers were presented by Sunep Lemtur, Castle Dance Academy, and Yen Zhimo.
Declaration of new office bearers was initiated by DUCCF treasurer and Search Committee convener (2026–2028) Renathung Ezung, followed by a dedicatory prayer offered by Rev. Vilodi Sakhrie.