The Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) has issued a directive prohibiting the adoption of non-local individuals within its jurisdiction with effect from May 1, 2026.
The decision, approved during a presidential meeting held on April 18 at Kidima village under Kezocha block in Kohima district, was taken in connection with the 2025 murder case of Vihozhonu Zao, the organisation stated.
In a public notice, SAYO informed that no individual or family within Southern Angami areas would be permitted to adopt non-local persons. The organisation stated that the measure was intended to ensure the safety of the community and to preserve the integrity and values of indigenous people.
The directive further outlined consequences for violations, which may include exile from the village, cancellation or revocation of Scheduled Tribe and Indigenous Inhabitant certificates, and other actions deemed appropriate by the organisation.
It also stated that in cases where such adoptions are concealed and later detected, the certificates of both the adopted individual and the adopting family would be cancelled or revoked with immediate effect.
The organisation added that no support would be extended to individuals who fail to adhere to the directive.
SAYO urged members of the Southern Angami community to comply with the decision and refrain from adopting non-local individuals.