Minister for Power & Parliamentary Affairs and state spokesperson KG Kenye reiterated today that the state government will conduct an enumeration in line with the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) for the four minority tribes of Nagaland: Kukis, Garos, Mikirs, and Kacharis. Addressing the media after a state cabinet meeting in Kohima, Kenye stated that the government has been generous in not moving the cut-off date from 1st December 1963 and in accommodating everyone.
Responding to the dissatisfaction expressed by the four minority tribes, which has even led to litigation, Kenye stated that they need to understand this is an opportunity for them to be part of the state.
He explained that their contention seems to be that all Kukis, Mikirs, Kacharis, and Garos who have come to the state should be granted indigenous status. However, he asserted that this status will only be offered to those who have been living in the state prior to 1st December 1963 and whose parents, grandparents, or forefathers appeared on the electoral roll in the first state general election in 1964.
Kenye added that enumeration is necessary to identify those who fall into this category. He urged the four minority tribes not to resist or seek other options that could threaten the state, warning that the government may be compelled to reconsider the decision made for their benefit.