Dimapur Naga Students’ Union urges action against fraudulent land acquisition

DIMAPUR — Following allegations of illegal land procurement and fraudulent acquisition of an Indigenous Certificate by a non-Naga man identified as Nirmal Jain, the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has submitted a formal representation to the deputy commissioner (DC) of Dimapur on June 26.

In its representation, the student body expressed concern over what it called a threat to the land rights and indigenous identity of the Naga people in Dimapur. It urged the DC to cancel fraudulently obtained Indigenous Certificates and nullify all illegally acquired land titles linked to such cases.

“We possess credible documentation and irrefutable proof that clearly demonstrates instances of non-local individuals procuring Indigenous Certificates through fraudulent means, subsequently using these invalid documents to purchase land and engage in other transactions they are not legally entitled to undertake,” it stated.

The union clarified that it does not oppose non-local communities living or working peacefully in Dimapur. However, it condemned individuals who misuse their presence to engage in illegal practices, particularly those undermining indigenous land rights.

Citing the specific case of Nirmal Jain, the DNSU said it had conducted a fact-finding exercise and gathered substantial evidence proving that Jain had illegally obtained an Indigenous Certificate. This document, it alleged, was then used to purchase land and conduct multiple transactions prohibited under the law for non-indigenous individuals.

Also read: Dimapur Naga Students’ Union flags alleged illegal land procurement, Indigenous Certificate by non-Naga

“Our findings indicate that Jain has illegally procured an Indigenous Certificate, which he has then used to purchase land and conduct multiple transactions that are not permissible under existing laws for non-indigenous individuals. The evidence we possess in this matter is comprehensive and compelling,” the union stated.

Calling for swift and impartial action, the DNSU urged the administration to initiate a thorough investigation into Jain’s case and other similar instances. The union also pointed to discrepancies in electoral rolls as part of the evidence supporting its claims.

Among its demands, the DNSU called for immediate legal action against all individuals involved in such unlawful activities; cancellation of fraudulently obtained Indigenous Certificates; nullification of land titles acquired through these illegal means; and implementation of stricter verification procedures for issuing Indigenous Certificates and processing land transactions involving non-local individuals.

Reiterating its stance, the union asserted that the rights of the indigenous Naga people must not be compromised, regardless of any external influence or pressure.

While the representation did not specify a timeframe for initiating action, the DNSU expressed hope that the district administration would address the issue promptly and decisively.