Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Nagaland Gorkha Association (NGA) has made a formal appeal to the Nagaland government, urging the inclusion of settled Gorkhas in the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN). Their plea, presented to Chief Secretary J. Alam, outlines the historical presence and contributions of Gorkhas in Nagaland since the 1870s, when they first arrived through British initiatives. With roots stretching across Kohima, Dimapur, Chumoukedima, and other areas, the Gorkhas have actively contributed to the state’s development, standing alongside Nagas during pivotal moments such as World War II and the Battle of Kohima.
The representation underscores the harmonious coexistence and equal treatment Gorkhas have experienced while contributing significantly to Nagaland’s progress. Recognized for their roles in rebuilding Kohima post-war, the Gorkhas were acknowledged during the city’s 125th-anniversary celebrations in 2004. Notable figures from the Gorkha community, including Late Hari Prasad Gorkha Rai, have played substantial roles in the state’s historical and administrative sectors. They have held important positions as IAS officers, Directors, Chief Engineers, and roles within the Nagaland Police.
The NGA is specifically requesting the extension of Non-Naga Indigenous Inhabitant certificates to Gorkhas residing before December 1, 1963, aligning with other recognized communities such as the Kachari and Kuki, as per the 1974 Gazette Notification. Currently, this recognition is limited to certain districts, excluding areas like Dimapur and Chumoukedima. The NGA highlights the oversight in the 1974 enumeration that left many Gorkha families unrecognized.
Recently, a government order setting a cut-off date of December 31, 1940, for Gorkha recognition has caused distress, conflicting with the previous collective understanding of December 1, 1963. The association has reaffirmed its call for consistency and fairness through a 2019 memorandum and remains hopeful that their concerns will be addressed by the current administration.
Original Story https://www.morungexpress.com/nagaland-gorkha-association-seeks-recognition-in-riin
Category : Nagaland
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