Indigenous groups oppose PRCs in Nagaland
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) and the Indigenous Lawyers’ Rights Consortium (ILRC) have urged the Nagaland government to stop issuing PRCs in Nagaland to non-indigenous people. The two bodies say such a move endangers tribal identity, land ownership, and constitutional safeguards.
Their joint statement highlights fears of demographic change and land loss, which many see as a direct challenge to Naga rights.
Why stopping PRCs in Nagaland matters
The groups argue that issuing PRCs in Nagaland to outsiders undermines Article 371(A) of the Constitution, which protects Naga customary laws and land rights.
The NSF said the step could “open the floodgates for exploitation and dilute indigenous rights.” The ILRC added that it could weaken legal safeguards that preserve tribal ownership of land and resources.
Both organizations want the state government to act before the issue escalates into wider unrest.
Past controversies over PRCs in Nagaland
This is not the first time PRCs have caused protests. In 2018, tribal groups opposed similar moves, which forced the government to withdraw proposals.
Public anger then was strong, with many fearing outsiders would gain access to land and jobs. The NSF says those fears remain, and the stakes are even higher today.
Wider concerns in Northeast India
The debate over PRCs in Nagaland echoes concerns across the Northeast. States such as Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Meghalaya also restrict non-indigenous settlement. These restrictions aim to protect fragile tribal populations from losing land to outsiders.
Analysts note that Nagaland’s case could influence policies in neighboring states. If Nagaland resists PRCs, it may strengthen calls for stricter indigenous rights elsewhere.
Government yet to respond
The Nagaland government has not issued a clear response to the demand. Political observers say the issue puts leaders in a tight spot. On one side, indigenous groups demand protection. On the other, some argue PRCs are needed for administrative clarity.
However, groups like the NSF warn that ignoring their concerns could spark protests. The ILRC has also suggested it may pursue legal action if necessary.
Land rights under Article 371(A)
Article 371(A) gives Nagaland special protections, especially over land and resources. These rights are central to Naga identity.
Civil society groups argue that issuing PRCs in Nagaland to outsiders erodes these protections. They say once land ownership opens up, tribal people risk losing control over their resources.
Legal experts back this view. They say lawmakers must uphold both the letter and the spirit of Article 371(A).
Voices from students and civil society
Students and community leaders support the NSF and ILRC stand. Many stress that the issue is not about denying basic services to non-indigenous residents but about securing land and culture for Nagas.
A young activist from Kohima said: “We welcome others to live and work here. But PRCs must not become a tool that threatens our land rights.”
The call reflects a growing awareness among youth about the link between identity and land.
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The NSF and ILRC have asked the government to hold consultations with tribal groups before any move on PRCs. They warned of protests if the demand is ignored.
Observers say this is a key test for the Nagaland government. The choice is between pursuing PRCs or protecting indigenous rights under Article 371(A).
For now, the demand to stop issuing PRCs in Nagaland has become a rallying point for many groups who fear losing their cultural and legal safeguards.