Why Are 5 Naga Bodies Protesting Nagaland's Job Reservation Policy?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a powerful display of unity, five major Naga tribes in Nagaland are demanding a review of the state's job reservation policy after years of inaction from the government. Their protests symbolize a deep-seated need for equity and representation, prompting urgent discussions about the future of job reservations in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Five Naga tribes are protesting for job reservation review.
- The protests are led by the CORRP, formed in 2023.
- The government has yet to respond to previous memorandums.
- A meeting is scheduled to discuss the job reservation policy.
- Reservation percentages have increased from 25% to 37% over the years.
Kohima, May 29 (NationPress) Defying harsh weather conditions, five prominent Naga tribes organized protest rallies across various districts in Nagaland on Thursday, advocating for a reassessment of the state's job reservation policy.
The demonstrations were led by the ‘5 Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy (CORRP)’, which was established in 2023 to champion the cause for job reservations benefiting these tribes – Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, and Sumi.
A representative from the protesting CORRP stated that the committee had submitted a memorandum on September 20 of the previous year and issued an ultimatum on April 26 to the state government; however, no action has been taken to reassess the job reservation policy.
"With no other options left, we have initiated our protest in a completely democratic way to capture the state government's attention and to bring our demands to the forefront," the representative remarked.
He warned that if the government fails to address their concerns, the CORRP would escalate its protests.
A government official mentioned that the Nagaland government established a committee on May 7 to review and report on the job reservation policy within three months.
In the midst of the CORRP protests, the state government has arranged a meeting with the CORRP on June 3 in Kohima, he added.
This upcoming meeting, presided over by Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, who oversees Home and Border Affairs, will focus on discussing the job reservation policy, according to the official.
The Nagaland government originally implemented the 1977 reservation policy for Backward Tribes (BT), reserving 25 percent of jobs for seven tribes in non-technical and non-gazetted positions for a decade.
These tribes were classified as backward based on educational and economic disadvantages and their limited representation in state services. Over the years, the reservation has increased to 37 percent, with 25 percent allocated for seven eastern Nagaland tribes and 12 percent for four other BT tribes.
The CORRP is comprised of five Naga tribal organizations – the Angami Public Organisation, the Ao Senden, the Lotha Hoha, the Rengma Hoho, and the Sumi Hoho, representing these five communities.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of the CORRP's protests. The demands for a review of the job reservation policy reflect the ongoing struggles of marginalized communities in Nagaland. It is crucial for the government to engage with these tribes and consider their concerns seriously, as social equity is vital for the region's harmony and progress.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the protests by the Naga tribes?
The Naga tribes are protesting to demand a review of the state's job reservation policy, which they believe is outdated and unfair.
What is the role of the 5 Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy (CORRP)?
The CORRP was formed to advocate for job reservations for the Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, and Sumi tribes in Nagaland.
What has the government done in response to the protests?
The Nagaland government has formed a committee to review the job reservation policy and has scheduled a meeting with the CORRP.
When was the job reservation policy first implemented?
The job reservation policy for Backward Tribes was first implemented in 1977.
How has the reservation percentage changed over the years?
Initially, 25% of jobs were reserved for seven tribes, which has since increased to 37%.
