Dimapur, April 13 (MExN): The Western Sümi Students' Union (WSSU) has categorically stated that individuals “whose parental lineage is not of Sümi origin by blood” should neither be issued Scheduled Tribe (ST) nor Indigenous Inhabitant Certificates (IIC).
They should also not be granted No Objection Certificates (NOC) for such purposes, the WSSU added in an advisory to all concerned administrative authorities regarding the issuance of ST certificates and IICs.
The Union further cautioned Gaon Buras (GBs) and Village Councils to refrain from issuing NOCs based merely on village affiliation or personal familiarity.
It further stressed the importance of strict verification and due diligence in such sensitive matters.
The WSSU also urged administrative authorities and Dobashis to thoroughly scrutinise all supporting documents before processing applications.
This step is vital to maintaining the integrity of tribal identity and protecting the rights of indigenous Sümi citizens, it underscored.
Further, the WSSU appealed to all Sümi residents of Niuland and Chümoukedima districts to process their ST/IIC documents through their respective District Commissioner's offices.
To this end, the Union expressed concern over the increasing number of applicants from these districts approaching the Dimapur DC office, which it believes is undermining administrative order.
Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the interests of the Sümi community, the WSSU stated that it remains available to provide guidance and assistance to any individual seeking clarification or support in these matters.
