Zeme Council reiterates ban on sale of ancestral land to outsiders

DIMAPUR — Expressing concern over the increasing trend of selling and purchasing large tracts of ancestral Zeme land in Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur, the Zeme Council, Northeast India (ZCNEI) has reiterated its ban on sale of such land to outsiders.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the council reminded that earlier resolutions strictly prohibit such sales, except to members of Zeliangrong community.

It asserted that Zeme land is more than property—it represents heritage, identity, and the collective history of the community. While individual landowners may exercise ownership rights, it stated, the land ultimately belongs to the Zeme people as a whole and must be preserved for future generations.

Issuing a stern warning, the ZCNEI said that those attempting to purchase large portions of Zeme land, or who have already done so to establish new villages or colonies, must withdraw immediately and reclaim their money.

Failure to do so, it cautioned, would leave buyers solely responsible for the consequences of defying the will of the Zeme community.

Reaffirming its stand, the council declared: “Zeme land is not for sale.” It further called upon all Zeme citizens to remain vigilant and united in safeguarding their ancestral land.

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