Chümoukedima, May 25, 2025, Virthli (ONP): Five prominent tribal bodies in Nagaland - representing the Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, and Sumi communities - have announced a phased, peaceful protest against the state government’s failure to review the 48-year-old job reservation policy.
The announcement came during a consultative meeting of the 5 Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy held at CPO Hall, Chümoukedima, on Saturday. The committee, formed in August 2023, had submitted a memorandum on September 20, 2024, followed by an ultimatum on April 26, 2025, which is set to expire on May 26. With no official response from the government, the committee has resolved to move forward with district-level protests, escalating to a demonstration at the Secretariat if needed.
Committee Secretary G.K. Zhimomi stated that the core demand is either to scrap the outdated reservation policy or reallocate unreserved quotas to the five tribes, who currently receive no share in the existing structure. “We are not against any tribe receiving benefits. But the policy, which began in 1977 with a 10-year validity, has remained unchanged for 48 years without a proper review,” he said.
Zhimomi also highlighted unresolved issues including internal reservations, duration of policy, creamy layer concerns, and alleged multiple beneficiaries from some groups. “Despite repeated appeals, the government has remained silent,” he added.
ALSO READ: Nagaland Government Suspends IAS Officer Reny Wilfred Over Criminal Investigation
Meanwhile, student bodies representing the government-designated Backward Tribes (BTs) - Chakhesang, Zeliang, and Pochury - have strongly opposed the committee’s demands. In a joint statement, they warned that any dilution of the policy would harm the socio-economic progress of already marginalised communities. “The reservation policy is crucial in addressing long-standing inequalities. Weakening it would be deeply unjust,” the student unions said.
The standoff sets the stage for a contentious policy debate in Nagaland, with both sides asserting their vision of justice and equity in public employment.
