State slams racial bias against people from NE

Nagaland government has strongly condemned recent incidents of alleged racial discrimination against people from the Northeast in different parts of the country, with minister for Tourism Temjen Imna Along asserting that such acts are unacceptable and deeply hurtful.
Responding to media queries on steps being taken to prevent recurrence of such incidents, Along said the state government shares the pain and concern of affected families.
Referring to recent cases, including an incident involving a Naga doctor in Gorakhpur and reported harassment of Northeastern tenants in other cities, the minister said the people of Nagaland feel “hurt and pained” by the way youths from the region are treated by “misguided individuals.”
He noted that chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio has openly condemned such incidents and made the state government’s position clear. “Such kinds of incidents should not happen,” Along reiterated, adding that the government stands firmly against any form of racial or discriminatory behaviour.
The minister further pointed out that Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia had also condemned the incidents and called for strict punishment of those responsible. He said authorities concerned have taken action, and in the Gorakhpur case, those allegedly involved have been booked.
Emphasising the broader national context, Along said discriminatory behaviour undermines the vision of a united and strong India. “While building a narrative of ‘One India,’ such behaviour towards our people cannot support that vision,” he said, urging the media to responsibly highlight the issue and ensure the right message is conveyed.
He stressed that racial discrimination against Northeasterners is unacceptable under any circumstances and expressed concern for young men and women who face such experiences away from home.
Responding to a question on alleged visual misrepresentation of Nagaland by certain agencies, Along clarified that Government of India should not be broadly blamed. He said perceptions may vary, but the Nagaland government is engaging with the Centre and other state governments to ensure that citizens from the Northeast are not subjected to discrimination or humiliation.
Along affirmed that the state government would continue to reach out openly on the matter to safeguard the dignity and rights of its people across the country.