Five major Naga tribes — Angami, Ao, Lotha, Rengma, and Sumi — organized synchronized rallies across Nagaland on May 29, 2025. The protest, which spanned multiple districts, centered on a key demand: an urgent and transparent review of the state’s job reservation policy.
The coordinated movement, known as the “Unified Naga Protest for Reservation Reform,” saw thousands of people gathering in Kohima, Mokokchung, Wokha, Zunheboto, and Tseminyu. Protesters held banners reading “Equality in Opportunity” and “Policy Review Now” as they marched peacefully through major towns.
Statewide Rally Seeks Equity in Employment
The call for policy reform is not new, but this large-scale mobilization of Naga tribes brings renewed pressure on the Nagaland government. Protest leaders argue that the existing reservation system is outdated. Disproportionately benefits certain groups, and fails to reflect the current demographic and socio-economic landscape.
In Kohima, tribal elder Keviliezo Angami addressed a massive gathering, stating, “We are not against affirmative action. We seek justice and fair representation for all tribes. The current structure does not mirror today’s Nagaland.”
To better understand how job reservation policies work in India, refer to this detailed overview of reservation systems.
Grievances Over Representation and Transparency Naga tribes job
The protesters have submitted a joint memorandum to the Nagaland Chief Secretary, outlining the key grievances. Among their demands are:
- A review committee inclusive of all major tribes
- Updated reservation quotas based on current population data
- Transparent recruitment processes in state services
- Regular audits of hiring practices
Members of the Nagaland Tribal Apex Bodies Forum have backed the movement, stressing that the issue is not political but a long-standing social imbalance.
Protesters allege that smaller or politically favored groups are enjoying disproportionate access to government jobs. While more populous tribes remain underrepresented.
Peaceful Demonstrations With Strong Impact
Despite the emotional weight of the issue, Thursday’s protests remained peaceful. Further, police officials and district authorities ensured that the demonstrations were orderly, and no incidents of violence or disruption were reported.
In Mokokchung, a prominent leader of the Ao tribe, Imnasenla Jamir, stated, “Our youth deserve a system that reflects fairness, not favoritism. This is about the future of Nagaland.”
A senior government official speaking anonymously confirmed that the state government is aware of the growing pressure. And has initiated informal discussions to evaluate the demand for a reservation review.
For recent news on youth employment and reservation policies, visit North East Policy Watch.
Political and Civil Responses Emerge
The Opposition Naga People’s Front (NPF) voiced support for the movement and urged the state government to engage in dialogue rather than delay action.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has yet to make an official statement. Sources within the Nagaland Secretariat say a press briefing may be scheduled in the coming days to address public sentiment.
Moreover, Civil society groups and student unions, including the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), have expressed solidarity with the movement, calling for inclusive consultations.
To follow up on how student bodies influence public policy in Nagaland, check out our recent report on NSF’s educational campaigns.
What’s Next For Naga tribes job?
As the Naga tribes job reservation protest gains momentum, all eyes are on the state government to initiate a formal review process. Protest leaders have warned that failure to act will lead to more sustained and larger demonstrations in the coming months.
They have also appealed to the Centre to monitor the situation and offer support for a transparent evaluation of reservation policies.
