Zeliang Students’ Union Nagaland vows to defend community rights

Zeliang Students’ Union Nagaland (ZLSU) has reaffirmed its commitment to defending the legal and indigenous entitlements of the Zeliang tribe within Nagaland.
In a press release, ZLSU president Roland Zeliang and general secretary Keyinreulu emphasized that the 1963 cut-off year for issuance of Indigenous Inhabitant Certificates (IICs) remains a non-negotiable benchmark. The union warned that any attempts to deviate from, dilute, or manipulate this norm would be firmly opposed.
ZLSU stressed that the protection of Zeliang rights falls within the constitutional framework of India, citing Article 19(1)(e) read with Article 19(5), and described it as both a constitutional and moral imperative. The union urged all responsible authorities, including village councils, to exercise their duties with diligence and vigilance, cautioning that negligence or complicity in undermining indigenous rights would not be tolerated.
Highlighting the importance of unity, ZLSU called upon every member of the Zeliang community to remain alert and resolute in safeguarding their collective identity, heritage, and constitutional safeguards. The union also addressed non-indigenous residents in Peren district, urging them to respect the rights of the indigenous population and refrain from any attempts to encroach upon or undermine Zeliang entitlements. It emphasized that peace and harmony must be grounded in justice, respect, and mutual understanding.
Expressing concern over certain individuals allegedly attempting to compromise the rights, dignity, and interests of the Zeliang people despite prior accommodation, the union issued a stern warning. Any effort to destabilize unity, weaken tribal institutions, or incite division would be met with decisive action, it said.
ZLSU also called for strict adherence to Notification No. AR-16/7/94 dated February 2, 2016, issued by the Nagaland government, which prescribes the modalities for issuing IICs. The union warned that any government official found issuing certificates to non-indigenous persons, or any individual obtaining them through unfair means, including village council chairmen issuing NOCs or authorizations, would be strictly dealt with.
The union reiterated that the rights of the indigenous Zeliang people are non-negotiable, and their protection remains paramount. ZLSU vowed to act firmly to safeguard the dignity, unity, and entitlements of the community, underscoring that any violation of these rights would face uncompromising opposition.