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DIMAPUR — With the Urban Local Body (ULB) elections in Nagaland not far off, the Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has underscored the importance of indigenous representation to safeguard the interest and aspirations of the indigenous Naga populace.
The federation, in a press release, emphasised that it is “incumbent upon us to ensure that the voices of our people are not only heard but also authentically represented in decision-making processes”.
Central to the NSF's advocacy is the recognition of ULBs as instrumental platforms for fostering local governance and driving development initiatives within urban areas, the NSF said.
“However, this advocacy extends beyond mere participation; it underscores the imperative of exclusive indigenous representation in these electoral contests. The NSF asserts that the contestation in the upcoming ULB elections must be reserved solely for indigenous Naga individuals, i.e., 'Nagas by blood, not by adoption',” the federation maintained.
Also, advocating the exclusion of Naga women married to non-locals, inclusive of their offsprings, from contesting in these elections, the student body argued that this stance emanates from a deep-seated understanding of the intrinsic connection between governance, culture and identity, which collectively shape the socio-political landscape of Nagaland.
While urging all stakeholders, including electoral authorities and citizens to uphold the sanctity of indigenous representation, the NSF underscored the need to safeguarding the essence of Naga identity in the decision-making processes at the local level.
“It is through such concerted efforts that we can ensure the authentic articulation of the Naga people's aspirations and interests.
“As guardians of Naga interests, the NSF remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting inclusivity, equality, and the preservation of indigenous rights across all spheres of governance. In doing so, we reaffirm our collective resolve to nurture a democratic ethos that is rooted in the principles of justice, equity, and empowerment for all,” said the federation.