In a major decision, the Central government has extended the NSCN K ban (National Socialist Council of Nagaland – Khaplang faction) and all its associated entities for another five years. The ban, imposed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, will be effective from 28 September 2025, citing threats to India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
This move underscores New Delhi’s determination to curb militant outfits that disrupt peace and security in the Northeast.
Why the NSCN K Ban Was Extended
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued a notification reaffirming the extension. According to the government, the NSCN K has been involved in violent and unlawful activities, including extortion, armed attacks, and attempts to undermine India’s authority in Nagaland and surrounding states.
The official statement said the group continues to pose “a significant threat to sovereignty, integrity, and security of the country.”
Background of NSCN K
The NSCN K faction, formed after a split within the National Socialist Council of Nagaland, has operated primarily in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and along the Indo-Myanmar border. The group has long sought a separate homeland for the Naga people and has been accused of orchestrating violent incidents.
In the past, NSCN K has carried out high-profile ambushes against security forces. Its activities have been closely monitored by both Indian and Myanmar authorities, given its cross-border presence.
Legal Framework for the Ban
The extension of the ban falls under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which empowers the Centre to prohibit organizations involved in terrorism or secessionist activities.
The notification declared that all formations and front organizations of the NSCN K are outlawed for the next five years. The government has also empowered security agencies to seize properties, restrict funding channels, and monitor suspected members.
For context, the UAPA framework has previously been used to ban other militant groups, ensuring that organizations threatening national security cannot function legally in India.
Security Implications for Nagaland and the Northeast
The extension of the NSCN K ban carries major security implications for Nagaland and the larger Northeast. Security agencies believe the ban strengthens their legal authority to act against cadres, sympathizers, and financing networks.
This decision comes at a time when the government is also boosting infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh and improving connectivity across the Northeast to ensure both development and security.
For detailed coverage on recent projects, see the Economic Times report on infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh.
Reactions to the NSCN K Ban Extension
While the government has not released detailed intelligence inputs, officials insist the decision is based on recent security assessments.
Political leaders in Nagaland have urged for peace and dialogue, even as they acknowledged the government’s duty to act firmly against armed groups. Civil society organizations, meanwhile, expressed hope that this step would not derail ongoing peace efforts with other Naga groups.
Previous Ban and Renewals
The NSCN K was first banned in 2015 after the group unilaterally abrogated its ceasefire agreement with the Government of India and launched violent attacks. Since then, the ban has been periodically extended in line with security reviews.
The current notification ensures that the group remains outlawed until at least 2030, unless revoked earlier based on future conditions.
What Comes Next
Security experts believe the move will tighten pressure on NSCN K, especially given its cross-border presence in Myanmar. Agencies are expected to enhance surveillance on recruitment drives, arms smuggling, and extortion networks linked to the group.
The government also reiterated that peace talks remain open with organizations that abjure violence and respect the Constitution.
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With the NSCN K ban extended for five more years, the Centre has signaled its unwavering stance on national security. While peace dialogues continue with other factions, this move highlights India’s zero-tolerance approach toward militancy.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain alert and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the fight against extremism.
For official updates, follow reports on Economic Times and verified Northeast India news outlets.
