The Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) of Seithekema Circle, Er Seyiekhrietuo Solo, has issued a formal notice to all village councils under the jurisdiction, highlighting concerns regarding the processing of Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Indigenous Inhabitant Certificate applications. The notice emphasized the need for village authorities to strictly adhere to state government guidelines when forwarding these applications to prevent complications.

The EAC’s office expressed frustration over the submission of incomplete and improperly verified applications by some Village Council Chairmen and GBs. These submissions, which do not meet the necessary criteria, have led to significant administrative issues.

The EAC reiterated the following steps to be followed by village authorities:

1. Thorough Scrutiny: Village councils must carefully review each application, ensuring that all details provided are accurate and consistent with official records.

2. Supporting Documents: It is critical that all necessary documents accompanying the applications are genuine and complete.

3. Physical Verification: Where necessary, physical verification of applicants should be conducted to confirm their identity and eligibility.

4. NOC from Native Village: One of the key requirements for acceptance is the “Naga by blood” criterion. The notice stressed that village authorities must ensure the submission of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the applicant’s native village before signing the application form.

5. Stop Signing Blank Applications: Some cases have been noted where village authorities signed blank application forms before the details were filled in. The EAC urged the village councils to halt this practice immediately and only sign meticulously vetted forms.

Solo further emphasized the importance of the process, stating, “Your cooperation in maintaining the sanctity of these certificates is crucial and highly appreciated as the matter entails the very sanctity of our village councils as the custodians of our Naga identity and our common future.”

MT

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