CNTC demands implementation of RIIN, backward quota policy review

Dimapur, Oct. 5 (EMN): The Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) has asked the state government to implement the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) and review the backward quota policy “as per the guidelines since there were some loopholes”.

Expressing discontentment over the state government not implementing its policies despite setting up various committees and approval of its reports by the Cabinet, it described ‘the committees as mere eye wash and lip service to the people’.

“When the commission on RIIN held a series of consultations with tribal organisations, the civil society and NGOs, and submitted its report to the state government, it has to act upon the report of the committee. CNTC wonder why the government- those at the helm, was not introducing the act which has been started (by) them,” read the press release.

The CNTC also demanded reviewing of policy on backward quota, stating that the government is supposed to do so every 10 years as per the guidelines but it has not been carried out.

“Since its (backward quota) implementation in 1977, it has undergone several changes but in reality the state government failed to review the policy as per the guidelines. High Power Committee on backward quota has also been set (up) but the report was yet to be implemented, whereas the present government is going to end its tenure. Therefore, the state government should come out with proper guidelines as early as possible,” it stated.

The council also pressed for early completion of the “foothill road”, saying that the government isn’t giving importance to the “People’s Road”.

“There is unequal distribution of funds and schemes and some funds meant for these areas have been diverted to those in power,” it claimed, adding that it has resolved to extend unflinching support to Nagaland Foothill Road Co-ordination Committee for early completion of the road.