The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), in collaboration with its federating units and subordinate bodies, has reiterated its firm stance on the importance of indigenous representation in the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) elections in Nagaland.

“As the elections approach, the NSF underscores the necessity of ensuring that the voices and aspirations of the indigenous Naga populace are authentically represented in all decision-making processes. The Naga people have a rich history and vibrant culture that are intricately woven into the fabric of our governance structures. Central to this governance is the observance of customary laws and traditional practices, which 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,” stated the NSF.

It is within this context that the NSF emphasized the critical need to elect individuals who embody and respect these traditions.

According to the Federation, electing non-Naga individuals to local governance positions poses a significant risk to the preservation of the cultural heritage of Nagas.

Advocating that contestation in the ULB elections be reserved exclusively for indigenous Naga individuals of Nagaland state, the NSF stated, “Such appointments could disrupt the traditional systems that have long sustained our communities and dilute the cultural legacy that defines us as a people. The NSF strongly believes 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. Candidates must be Nagas by blood, not by adoption.”

The NSF also called for the exclusion of women married to non-locals from contesting in these elections. This stance, according to the Federation, 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.

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

The NSF called upon all stakeholders, including the general public, to uphold the sanctity of indigenous representation. “We urge every member of our society to recognize the importance of electing representatives who are deeply rooted in Naga traditions and who will work to preserve our unique cultural heritage. It is imperative that the essence of Naga identity and agency is safeguarded at the local level. 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 asserted.

With the believe that the upcoming ULB Election being a critical juncture for the people of Nagaland, the NSF viewed that it is a moment where the public must collectively decide to preserve the Naga heritage and ensure that their voices are heard in the corridors of power.

“Furthermore, we call 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. By standing together, we can protect the rights and interests of the indigenous Naga people and ensure that our cultural and traditional practices continue to thrive,” added the Federation.

“The Naga Students’ Federation, along with our federating units and subordinate bodies, urges 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. Together, we can achieve a future that honors our past and builds on the strong foundation of our cultural heritage,” stated the NSF.

With collective effort and a shared vision, the Federation expressed confidence that the sanctity of indigenous representation will be upheld.