Kohima: The Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) has announced a ban on the adoption of non-local individuals within its jurisdiction, effective from May 1, 2026.
In a notification issued on April 18, SAYO president Zasitsolie Beio and general secretary Keneisel Tetso stated that the decision was taken following the brutal murder of late Vihozhonu Zao in 2025, allegedly by an adopted non-local individual.
The resolution was approved during the SAYO presidential meeting held on April 18, 2026, at Kidima village under Kezocha block in Kohima district.
According to the organisation, the move aims to safeguard the integrity, security, and well-being of the indigenous population in Southern Angami. It emphasised that no individual or family within its jurisdiction will be allowed to adopt any non-local person.
SAYO said the directive is intended to ensure community safety while preserving the cultural values and identity of the indigenous people.
The organisation has warned that violations will attract strict penalties, including expulsion from the village, cancellation or revocation of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status and Indigenous Inhabitant Certificates, along with other measures deemed appropriate.
It further stated that if such adoptions are concealed and later discovered, the ST and Indigenous Inhabitant Certificates of both the adopted individual and the adopting family will be cancelled with immediate effect.
Additionally, SAYO clarified that no assistance or support will be extended to those who fail to comply with the directive.
The organisation has urged all members under its jurisdiction to strictly adhere to the notification and refrain from adopting non-local individuals.