NSF panel warns of crackdown on proxy businesses in Naga areas

DIMAPUR — The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has warned against the continued proliferation of “benami” businesses in Naga areas and announced enforcement measures, including surprise inspections and spot checks across commercial sectors.

In a press release issued on Saturday, the commission stated that practices such as local fronting, proxy ownership and nominee arrangements—where non-locals operate businesses under the names of Naga citizens—are a direct violation of legal and customary safeguards protecting Naga land, trade and economic rights.

Flagging the issue as a long-standing concern, the ILRC said that the federation has been opposing such practices since the 1990s, but their persistence reflects “blatant disregard” for existing laws and community sentiment.

Also read: Phek court sentences man to 10 years for sexual assault of minor

Issuing an unequivocal directive, the commission asked all non-Naga individuals engaged in such arrangements to cease operations immediately, warning that there will be “no tolerance” for misuse of local identities to bypass regulations.

The ILRC also cautioned Naga individuals facilitating such practices, terming the growing trend of “rent-a-local” arrangements as a serious erosion of collective responsibility that undermines hard-won protections and economic sovereignty.

As part of a renewed crackdown, the commission stated that it will initiate surprise inspections and coordinate with relevant authorities to identify and expose illegal proxy business operations.

It asserted that any entity found violating the directive would face public exposure and appropriate action in defence of Naga rights and lawful economic order.