Kohima, February 25 (MExN): The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has on February 25 expressed appreciation to the Government of Nagaland for upholding the rights of indigenous people in the matter concerning the MBBS seat from the central pool allocation.
In a statement, the federation commended the state government for taking what it termed a principled stand to ensure that MBBS seats allocated to Nagaland are protected for rightful beneficiaries. It reiterated that only the indigenous populace of Nagaland and Nagas by blood should be entitled to avail the quota and benefits of seats allotted to the state.
The NSF stated that such seats are protective measures intended to secure the academic advancement of the indigenous Naga community and cautioned against any attempts by non-Nagas to claim or avail seats meant exclusively for Nagas. It said such attempts compromise the rights of deserving Naga students.
The federation further urged the state government to strengthen verification mechanisms, streamline eligibility criteria and institute clear safeguards to prevent ambiguity and protect the integrity of the quota system. It assured continued support to the government in defending the rights and privileges of indigenous Nagas.
Condemns attacks on NE women
In a separate statement, the NSF strongly condemned recent incidents of racial harassment and physical intimidation targeting women from the Northeastern region, including a reported case involving a young doctor from Nagaland at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences Gorakhpur. The federation alleged that she was stalked, subjected to obscene comments and racial slurs, and physically intimidated.
It also referred to the reported harassment of three women from Arunachal Pradesh in New Delhi, terming the incidents part of a disturbing pattern of racial discrimination against Northeastern citizens.
While acknowledging condemnations from various quarters, the NSF demanded immediate arrests, impartial and time-bound investigations, and strict punishment for those involved. It warned that any leniency would embolden perpetrators and perpetuate racism and gender-based violence.
The federation called for stricter enforcement of anti-harassment and anti-discrimination laws, enhanced security in universities, hostels and workplaces, and urged people of the Northeast to remain united against all forms of discrimination.
