The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has expressed its unequivocal support to the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) over its call to safeguard the ancestral lands of the Naga people, saying recent developments surrounding the Maova village land dispute highlight the growing need to protect customary land ownership systems.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Union said it stands in firm solidarity with the concerns raised by the NSF in its August 1 statement, asserting that such disputes underscore the challenges in preserving the customary land rights that have long formed an integral part of Naga identity, culture and heritage.

The DNSU stated that ancestral land is not merely a physical asset but a vital symbol of the history, traditions and collective existence of the Naga people.

It maintained that any attempt to undermine or disregard customary land ownership poses a direct threat to the social fabric and indigenous identity of the Nagas.

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The Union urged the concerned authorities and all stakeholders to respect and uphold customary laws and traditional land ownership practices, take immediate steps to prevent further escalation of land-related disputes, and ensure that the rights and interests of indigenous communities are protected at all times.

Appealing for unity, the DNSU called upon all sections of society to remain vigilant and work collectively to safeguard ancestral lands, stating that timely intervention and shared responsibility are essential to maintaining peace, harmony and justice.

Reaffirming its commitment to the cause, the Union said it would continue to stand alongside the NSF and all like-minded citizens in defending the rightful heritage, customary rights and dignity of the Naga people.