The Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO) has issued a strong condemnation of an alleged incident that occurred earlier today, in which a local customer, Meyi Jamir, was reportedly manhandled by non-local traders while purchasing vegetables at Murgipatti market.
In a press release issued by its Media Cell, DAYO described the incident as “not only unacceptable but also deeply disturbing, given the growing trend of non-local elements asserting unchecked dominance in public marketplaces.”
Calling the episode “an act of aggression,” the organization raised concern over what it described as the increasing monopolization of market spaces in Dimapur by non-local traders. “It is an undeniable fact that almost all market spaces in Dimapur are now monopolized by non-local traders,” the press release stated, adding, “What is more alarming is the audacity to lay their hands on locals with impunity.”
Describing the incident as “a grim reminder of the urgent need to reassert the rightful place of locals in their own homeland,” DAYO also reminded that non-local traders are “bound by the provisions of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regulations,” and warned that “any violation, whether legal, economic, or behavioral will not be tolerated.”
DAYO appealed to law enforcement agencies and the district administration to take timely action. “We appeal to the law enforcement agencies and the district administration to ensure timely [action] to ensure that such dangerous precedence [do not continue] as there are several such unreported cases,” it stated.
The organization further called upon “all local communities and civil society organizations to raise their voices and stand in solidarity against such unlawful and aggressive behavior.” Emphasizing the importance of collective vigilance, DAYO said, “It is time to be vigilant, aware, and united in defending our inherent rights, our dignity, and the social fabric of our land.”
Reaffirming its stand, the statement concluded, “DAYO stands firm in its commitment to protect the interests, rights, and safety of the indigenous Naga people of Dimapur.”