The job reservation policy for Backward Tribes (BT) in Nagaland became the focal point of debate in the state’s Legislative Assembly on Tuesday. This discussion, led by NPF MLA Achumbemo Kikon and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, brought light to the complexities and challenges of a policy that has been in place for nearly five decades.
The reservation policy was first implemented in 1977, aiming to uplift seven tribes that were designated as ‘Backward’ based on educational and economic disadvantages and their limited representation in state services. Initially, a 25% quota was allocated for these tribes in non-technical and non-gazetted posts for ten years. However, over the years, this quota was increased to 37%, with 25% reserved for the seven eastern Naga BT tribes and 12% for four other BT tribes.
One of the critical aspects of this policy is that reservations are granted based on tribal affiliation rather than population size or geographical area, with the exception of the Sumis of Kiphire. This approach has led to ongoing discussions about the fairness and effectiveness of the policy, particularly in terms of its ability to reach the most disadvantaged within these groups.
During the Assembly session, MLA Achumbemo Kikon expressed his concerns about the current policy, stating that the policy, while well-intentioned, may not be as equitable as envisioned. He pointed out that there are significant disparities within the reserved categories, with some groups benefiting disproportionately due to their urban residence and better access to education.
Kikon further argued that the reservation system should be more targeted, suggesting, “The government must identify economically disadvantaged areas and segregate the ‘creamy layer’ within the reserved groups. The real deserving ones, especially those from rural areas, are often left behind while others take advantage of the system.”
“People living in Urban areas… they are the ones who are sending their kids to good schools, good cities and they come back with their backward certificate and get a job. The ones who have graduated high school from the village do not get that opportunity,” said Kikon.
He also highlighted the potential consequences of not addressing these disparities: “Unless the state government brings a practical solution and proper rationalization on the matter, there is going to be a huge problem.”
Responding to these concerns, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio acknowledged the need for a review of the policy but emphasized that such a review should be based on accurate data.
According to the CM, the review of the nearly 50-year-old reservation policy will be undertaken only after the completion of the census. He noted that the cabinet had already discussed the need to revisit the policy but stressed the importance of doing so with proper information.
The exchange between Kikon and Rio highlights a critical challenge facing Nagaland: how to ensure that the benefits of reservation policies reach those most in need while avoiding the pitfalls of entrenching inequalities. Kikon’s suggestion to identify and segregate within the reserved categories—based on economic conditions and urban-rural divides—aims to make the policy more equitable and effective.
He proposed that “the reservation should be identified pocket-wise,” citing the example of the Sumis of Kiphire, where both population and geographical factors are considered. Kikon added, “In some areas, like the Chakhesangs of Pfutsero or the Sangtams of Longkhim-Chare, we see that while some are still backward, others are far advanced. We need to start segregating within the reserved groups so that the real meaning of quota and reservation is realized.”
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