NSF reiterates demand for indigenous representation in ULB elections

DIMAPUR — The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), along with its federating units and subordinate bodies, has issued a strong call for exclusive indigenous representation in the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) elections in Nagaland.

In a ‘public appeal’ released on Tuesday, the NSF emphasised the need to ensure that the voices and aspirations of the indigenous Naga populace are authentically represented in all decision-making processes.

Stressing on the importance of preserving Naga cultural heritage and identity within local governance structures, it went on to state that the customary laws and traditional practices are not merely symbolic gestures but are the very essence of Naga identity.

“These practices have been handed down through generations and are vital for maintaining social cohesion and continuity within our communities. It is within this context that the NSF emphasises the critical need to elect individuals who embody and respect these traditions,” it said in the appeal.

Furthermore, the student body argued that electing non-Naga individuals to these positions would pose a significant risk to the traditional systems and practices that have sustained Naga communities for generations.

“Such appointments could disrupt the traditional systems that have long sustained our communities and dilute the cultural legacy that defines us as a people,” it said, adding that indigenous representation in local governance is not just a matter of political correctness but a fundamental necessity for the survival of our cultural identity.

In light of these concerns, the NSF staunchly advocated that contestation in the ULB elections be reserved exclusively for indigenous Naga individuals of Nagaland state.

“Candidates must be Nagas by blood, not by adoption. Furthermore, the NSF strongly advocates for the exclusion of women married to non-locals from contesting in these elections,” it said, maintaining that their stance is “rooted in a deep-seated understanding of the intrinsic connection between governance, culture, and identity, which collectively shape the socio-political landscape of Nagaland.”

The NSF called upon all stakeholders, including the general public, to uphold the sanctity of indigenous representation.

“It is imperative that the essence of Naga identity and agency is safeguarded at the local level”, it said, urging every member of the society to recognise the importance of electing representatives who are deeply rooted in Naga traditions and who will work to preserve their unique cultural heritage.

“By ensuring that only genuine representatives of the Naga people are elected, we can maintain the integrity of our decision-making processes and authentically articulate the aspirations and interests of our populace,” it added.

Further, it said that the upcoming ULB elections represent a critical juncture for the people of Nagaland and the Naga people must collectively decide to preserve their heritage and ensure that their voices are heard in the corridors of power.

Appealing to all ‘conscious keepers’ of the state to join hands in this endeavour, the student body called for unity and collective action in upholding the sanctity of indigenous representation.

“Our history has shown that the strength of the Naga people lies in our unity and our commitment to shared values”, it said, urging every citizen of Nagaland to “take this call to action seriously.”

“The upcoming ULB elections are not just a political exercise but a defining moment for our cultural and social future. We must ensure that the representatives we elect are those who understand and value our traditions and are committed to preserving the cultural fabric that makes Nagaland unique”, it added.

The appeal was signed by the president and general secretary of the NSF, presidents of the Lotha Students’ Union, Chakhesang Students’ Union, Rengma Students’ Union, and Zeliangrong Students’ Union Nagaland, Pochury Students’ Union, Angami Students’ Union, Ao Kaketshir Mundang, Dimapur Naga Students’ Union, Diphupar Naga Students’ Union, All Nagaland College Students’ Union, and the All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) representative to the NSF.