Dimapur/Tesminyu, June 5 (MExN): The Dimapur Naga Students' Union (DNSU) and Rengma Students' Union (RSU) have declared their full strong endorsement of the Naga Students' Federation's (NSF) call for only indigenous candidates to contest in the upcoming Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) elections in Nagaland.
Elections to 3 Municipal Councils and 36 Town Councils in Nagaland are scheduled on June 26.
In a press release supporting the NSF’s stance, the DNSU pledged allegiance to the principle of 'Naga by blood, not by adoption' in the forthcoming civic polls,’ justifying that
In densely populated municipalities, particularly Dimapur and its environs, the Nagas face the “risk of cultural dilution due to the influx of non-locals, especially through intermarriage and adoption.” Hence, it is crucial that every conscientious Naga supports the steadfast stance of the NSF, it added.
Meanwhile, welcoming the 33% women reservation and lauding the current government for conducting the ULBs elections after two decades, the DNSU also appealed to the State Election Commission (SEC) and the Government to ensure that no untoward incidents happen and to conduct free and fair elections.
The communiqué issued by the DNSU President Hinoto P Aomi and General Secretary Michael Kath further directed all its officials to refrain from any sort of political campaign under the banner of the union.
Recognising the critical need to protect and safeguard the interests and essence of the Naga people, the RSU also declared full support for the NSF’s assertion for absolute indigenous representation, specifically advocating for 'Nagas by blood, not by adoption.'
The RSU also supports the NSF's stance on excluding women married to non-locals and their offspring from contesting in these elections, it said.
The RSU believes that preserving Naga identity and agency in decision-making processes at the local level is paramount in upholding the principles of inclusivity, equality, and indigenous rights, it added.
Such a step is essential in the pursuit of a democratic and empowered Nagaland, stated a press release from the RSU President Ajo Tsela and General Secretary Wakhanlo Semy.
To this end, the union urged all stakeholders and concerned citizens to advocate for the sanctity of indigenous participation in these elections.
Further, the RSU appealed to voters to exercise their vote wisely, not under the influence of money, but for visionary candidates dedicated to public service, ensuring a brighter and sustainable future for Nagaland.
