Are 5 Nagaland Tribal Groups Preparing Protests for Job Quota Review?
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Synopsis
The Five Tribes Committee in Nagaland has announced a phased agitation campaign demanding a review of the job quota for five backward tribal groups. With a deadline looming, the committee emphasizes the need for a reassessment of a policy that has remained unchanged for decades, raising important questions about representation and equity in state employment.
Key Takeaways
- Five Tribes Committee demands a review of job quotas.
- Current policy has been unchanged for 48 years.
- Peaceful protests are planned if demands are unmet.
- Job reservation policy initiated in 1977.
- 37% of non-technical jobs reserved for backward tribes.
Kohima, May 25 (NationPress) The Five Tribes Committee has revealed plans to embark on a phased protest initiative shortly, advocating for an urgent reassessment of the employment quota allocated for the state's five underprivileged tribal groups.
On April 26, the Five Tribes Committee issued an ultimatum to the government of Nagaland, insisting on an immediate review of the job quota for its five disadvantaged tribes.
The deadline for this ultimatum is set for Monday (May 26).
A representative from the tribal organizations stated on Sunday that the Five Tribes Committee, which includes the Angami Public Organisation, Ao Senden, Lotha Hoha, Rengma Hoho, and Sumi Hoho, has decided to commence peaceful protests if the Nagaland government fails to respond to their call for a reassessment of the state's job reservation policy.
The five tribal communities involved are the Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, and Sumi.
The Committee had previously given the state government a 30-day ultimatum on April 26. With the deadline approaching on Monday (May 26), they have reiterated their readiness to initiate a phased protest.
Formed in August 2023, the Committee presented a formal request to the government in September of the same year. However, the spokesperson noted that the Committee has yet to receive a response from the state government, leading to the ultimatum and planned protest actions.
Members of the Five Tribes Committee stressed their concern that the existing job reservation policy, which was introduced in 1977 for a temporary period of 10 years, has been in place for 48 years without any formal review.
The Committee voiced apprehension over the perpetuation of what they consider a temporary policy that has become entrenched without any re-evaluation. They announced that the initial phase of their agitation will include peaceful rallies in all district headquarters where the five tribal communities reside.
A subsequent phase may feature a peaceful dharna at the state secretariat in Kohima.
Additional protest measures may be announced later.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio previously informed the Nagaland Assembly that the reservation for backward tribes commenced in 1977, with 37% of the non-technical and non-gazetted positions currently reserved for them.
This reservation is divided into 25% for seven Eastern Nagaland backward tribes and 12% for four other backward tribes from different areas.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of the Five Tribes Committee's actions in Nagaland. Their demand for a review of the longstanding job reservation policy reflects a broader desire for equity and representation among marginalized communities. The government's response will be pivotal in addressing these concerns and fostering unity in the region.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Five Tribes Committee?
The Five Tribes Committee is an organization comprising members from five tribal groups in Nagaland, advocating for their rights and interests.
What are the demands of the Five Tribes Committee?
The committee demands an immediate review of the job quota for the state's five backward tribes, which has not been reassessed for nearly five decades.
When did the committee issue its ultimatum?
The committee issued a 30-day ultimatum to the Nagaland government on April 26, with the deadline set for May 26.
What are the planned protest actions?
The planned protest actions include peaceful rallies in district headquarters and a potential dharna at the state secretariat in Kohima.
How long has the current job reservation policy been in effect?
The current job reservation policy was introduced in 1977 for a 10-year term but has remained in effect for 48 years without formal review.
