Kohima: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday emphasised the importance of unity, safeguarding indigenous rights, and ensuring responsible governance while addressing the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Tenyimi Union Dimapur (TUD) at the DDSC Stadium.
Commending the TUD for its five decades of dedication to fostering harmony and understanding among various tribes, Rio described the organisation as “a pillar of peace and brotherhood in Nagaland’s commercial hub.” He stated that unity must remain the foundation of the state’s strength, asserting, “Our unity must always remain our greatest strength, for through unity, we can ensure progress, stability, and dignity for our people.”
Addressing the sensitive issue of indigenous identity, the Chief Minister reiterated that while the four non-Naga tribes — Kuki, Kachari, Garo, and Mikir (Karbi) — are recognised as Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution (Nagaland) Scheduled Tribes Order, 1970, they cannot be considered indigenous inhabitants of Nagaland. He clarified that they are eligible for Scheduled Tribe certificates only if their families had settled in the state before its formation on December 1, 1963.
Rio also referred to the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) enumeration process, launched in 2024 to identify pre-1963 settlers among these communities. He explained that the process was currently on hold following a court order after tribal organisations filed a writ petition. The Chief Minister assured that the government would proceed with fairness and transparency, noting that recruitment opportunities reserved for the four tribes would resume once the court delivers its verdict.
Highlighting the government’s continued efforts to protect indigenous populations, Rio pointed out that the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system has been reinforced through the launch of an online ILP portal on January 1 and the introduction of new guidelines in August. These updated measures include additional ILP categories, stricter reporting requirements for hotels and employers, and greater involvement of village councils in monitoring permit holders.
“The ILP is not merely a regulatory tool — it is a shared responsibility to safeguard our heritage and the future of our indigenous people,” Rio said, urging collective cooperation from civil society to ensure effective implementation.
Calling for unity and reconciliation among all Nagas, the Chief Minister concluded, “Let this Golden Jubilee be a celebration of our unity and a renewal of our commitment to peace and progress.”
The event was attended by former Chief Minister Shürhozelie Liezietsu, Manipur MLA Losii Dikhu, and several leaders representing the Tenyimi tribes from Nagaland and Manipur.
