Nagaland: DUCCF urges grassroots leaders to be cautious while certifying IICs

Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has appealed to all GBs, chairmen, and other grassroots leaders to exercise the “highest sense of responsibility” when verifying and certifying applications for Indigenous Inhabitants Certificates (IICs).
In a press release, DUCCF president Zasivikho Zakiesato welcomed the Dimapur district administration’s decision to delegate the responsibility of certifying IICs to Colony Gaon Burahs (GBs) and chairmen.
DUCCF described the move as a “significant step towards strengthening grassroots governance” and enhancing authenticity in identifying genuine indigenous inhabitants of Nagaland.
The federation noted that grassroot leaders have been handling such responsibilities for over two decades. It emphasized that local leaders, being intimately familiar with the residents, history, and backgrounds of their respective colonies, were best positioned to ensure transparency, accountability, and credibility in the certification process. DUCCF appreciated the district administration for formalizing this long-standing practice through official entrustment.
However, DUCCF urged the local leaders to thoroughly trace applicants’ original roots and backgrounds before affixing signatures, warning that any lapse or casual approach could have serious long-term consequences for Naga society. It said IIC was not merely a document, but a crucial instrument meant to safeguard the rights, identity, and future of the Nagas of Nagaland, adding its sanctity must be protected at all costs.”