The Nagaland Cabinet’s recent decisions regarding the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) have sparked widespread criticism over alleged discrimination against minority tribes.
A statement issued by a concerned citizen and former supporter of the RIIN policy expressed alarm over the May 14 Cabinet resolution, accusing the government of using the ILP and RIIN mechanisms to marginalize minority communities such as the Kuki, Kachari, Garo, and Mikir. The suspension of Indigenous Inhabitant Certificate (IIC) issuance to these groups has been denounced as a denial of fundamental rights and an abuse of state power.
The statement further criticized the Cabinet’s push for a new interlocutor and fresh negotiations, despite the Government of India declaring the peace talks concluded. It alleged the move delays critical reforms and serves political interests. Citing over four decades of Assembly non-representation for the affected communities, the statement called for unity among all Nagas, especially youth, to protect the state’s identity and future.
