An educator associated with the Unacademy, Shuhendra Singh Chouhan, has tendered an unconditional apology to the Sumi Naga community over a controversial remark made during an online lecture in November 2024.

In a statement, Chouhan admitted that during a lecture on Unacademy’s YouTube channel, he had claimed that “when a Sumi and a Miya marry, their children are referred to as the Sumimiya tribe,” which he now acknowledges was factually incorrect and made without proper verification.

“I deeply regret that my statement has hurt the sentiments of the Sumi Naga community and, in any manner, tarnished the dignity and image of the Sumi tribe,” he said, adding that such an error is unacceptable, particularly in his role as an educator.

Chouhan also noted that the Sumi Youth Organization (SYO), led by its president Hikavi H Kinimi, had filed a defamation case against him and the Unacademy platform, registered as Complaint Case No. 1 of 2025 before the Judicial Magistrate First Class, Zunheboto.

Stating that he had no intention to disrespect or misrepresent the Sumi Naga community, Chouhan said he holds the community in high regard and respects its culture, identity and traditions. He formally withdrew his earlier statement and assured that he would exercise greater responsibility in his future lectures and public communications.

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He further mentioned that he is an aspirant for the Civil Services Examination and has appeared for the UPSC Preliminary Examination, adding that any adverse legal proceedings could significantly impact his career prospects.

Chouhan said he had approached the SYO seeking forgiveness, and that the organisation, considering his apology and assurance, has accepted it and agreed to initiate steps towards withdrawal of the case.

He expressed gratitude to the SYO for its “wisdom, maturity and spirit of reconciliation,” and also requested the organisation to facilitate the withdrawal of the FIR registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Kohima, as the matter stems from the same incident.