DNSU underscored three major issues: the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), early settlement of the Naga Political Issue, and the imperative implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime in Dimapur, Niuland, and Chümoukedima districts.
By Imna Longchar, TFM Nagaland Correspondent
Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU), on April 3, submitted a representation to the Governor of Nagaland, La Ganesan, at the Police Complex in Chümoukedima, highlighting pressing concerns affecting the Naga society.
In the detailed representation, DNSU underscored three major issues: the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), early settlement of the Naga Political Issue, and the imperative implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime in Dimapur, Niuland, and Chümoukedima districts.
Expressing deep concern over the continued imposition of AFSPA, 1958, in Nagaland and the prolonged delay in resolving the Naga political issue, DNSU stated that AFSPA—viewed as a draconian law—has for decades cast a shadow of fear and insecurity over the lives of the Naga people. The Act grants sweeping powers to security forces, leading to numerous human rights violations, including arbitrary arrests, torture, extrajudicial killings, and sexual violence. DNSU emphasized that the presence of AFSPA fundamentally undermines democracy and human dignity.
The continued enforcement of AFSPA perpetuates a climate of mistrust and alienation, which in turn hinders the process of peace and reconciliation. It has repeatedly been condemned by national and international human rights organizations for its inherent violation of civil liberties. The recent tragic incident in Oting, Mon district, was cited as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences resulting from the unchecked powers granted under this Act. DNSU joined the growing chorus of voices demanding the immediate and unconditional repeal of AFSPA from Nagaland, firmly believing that lasting peace and security can only be achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and the upholding of human rights, rather than through oppressive legislation.
On the Naga political issue, DNSU described it as a legacy of historical injustices that has remained unresolved for too long. Generations of Nagas have endured suffering and uncertainty while waiting for a just and lasting solution. The prolonged negotiations have led to widespread frustration and disillusionment among the Naga populace, particularly the youth. DNSU stated that the unresolved issue continues to obstruct the socio-economic development of the state and the region. In its appeal, the Union urged the Government of India and the Naga Political Groups (NPGs) to expedite the peace process and reach an early and honourable settlement that respects the unique history, identity, and aspirations of the Naga people. DNSU expressed its belief that a solution grounded in mutual understanding and respect is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability across the region.
In light of these concerns, DNSU appealed to Governor La Ganesan to use his office to advocate for the immediate and unconditional repeal of AFSPA from Nagaland and to urge the Government of India and the NPGs to prioritize the early and amicable resolution of the Naga political issue. The Union also stressed the importance of ensuring that the rights and aspirations of the Naga people, particularly the youth, are given due consideration in the ongoing peace process. While promoting a conducive environment for dialogue and reconciliation, DNSU believes the Governor’s intervention would play a crucial role in fostering trust, understanding, and ultimately ushering in a new era of peace, justice, and prosperity for Nagaland.
DNSU’s representation also raised strong concerns over the non-implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime in Dimapur, Niuland, and Chümoukedima districts. The Union asserted that the implementation of ILP in these areas is crucial for the protection of the indigenous Naga people and for the preservation of their unique socio-economic fabric. Emphasizing Dimapur’s position as the commercial hub of Nagaland, DNSU pointed out that a significant portion—estimated to be nearly 90 percent—of the city’s economic activities are controlled by non-local entities. DNSU President Hinoto P. Aomi and General Secretary Michael Kath, in a joint press statement, acknowledged the contributions of different communities but maintained that it is imperative to address the growing concerns surrounding the exploitation of indigenous resources and the erosion of the Nagas’ economic rights. The Union lamented that certain non-local elements, under the pretext of minority rights, are demanding exemptions from ILP regulations, and if these demands are entertained, it would severely undermine the fundamental purpose of ILP, which is to safeguard the interests of the indigenous Naga population.
Clarifying its stance, DNSU reiterated that ILP is not intended to discriminate against any community but rather to ensure that the economic development of Nagaland benefits its rightful stakeholders—the indigenous inhabitants. DNSU also highlighted the alarming prevalence of the “Benami” system in business operations, where non-locals conduct businesses using the names of indigenous individuals to circumvent regulatory norms. This practice, the Union said, denies indigenous Nagas their rightful economic share, thereby worsening economic disparity and further marginalizing the indigenous population. The Union stressed that the implementation of ILP in Dimapur is not optional but a constitutional safeguard designed to protect the rights and interests of the Naga people. It appealed for the immediate and comprehensive enforcement of the ILP regime in Dimapur and the rejection of any demands for exemptions. DNSU also called for a thorough review of existing business licenses and ownership structures to identify and rectify any instances of exploitation and illegal practices, along with the reinforcement of enforcement mechanisms to effectively regulate the entry and stay of non-locals in Dimapur.
Meanwhile, DNSU also took up the issue of worsening traffic congestion in Dimapur and urged the Governor to support infrastructural developments to ease the growing burden. DNSU stated that the rapid increase in vehicular population, combined with the city’s current road infrastructure, has led to severe bottlenecks resulting in significant delays, economic losses, and rising environmental pollution. The Union proposed the construction of a strategically planned flyover in Dimapur to help decongest critical traffic points, such as the area near the railway station and City Centre. This flyover, they believe, would substantially improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance overall urban connectivity. Additionally, it would reduce the volume of fuel wasted in traffic and help lower emissions from vehicles.
DNSU further appealed for the expedited construction of the road connecting Amar Mill to the National Highway, identifying it as a vital alternate route to divert substantial traffic away from the city’s main roads. While acknowledging that infrastructure development requires significant resources and careful planning, DNSU emphasized that such projects are essential for the sustainable growth and prosperity of Dimapur. The Union expressed its readiness to cooperate with the government to bring these projects to fruition, believing that the Governor’s intervention would provide much-needed relief to residents and pave the way for a more efficient and prosperous future for the commercial capital of Nagaland.