Dimapur, Nagaland: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has taken additional charge as the Governor of Nagaland. On Monday, he was sworn in as the 22nd Governor by Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar at the Raj Bhavan in Kohima.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, his cabinet members, and other dignitaries attended the ceremony. Before the event, Bhalla received the Rashtriya Salute from the Nagaland Police Mahila (IR) contingents.

Bhalla’s Message to the People

During his address, Bhalla expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome. He said he assumed office with a strong sense of duty and humility.

“I am deeply mindful of the trust placed in me by our country’s leadership,” he said. He also remembered his predecessor, La Ganesan, who passed away on August 15, 2025.

Tribal Bodies Skip Ceremony

Meanwhile, five major tribal organizations—Angami Public Organisation, Ao Senden, Lotha Hoho, Rengma Hoho, and Sumi Hoho—declined the government’s invitation to the swearing-in ceremony.

The 5 Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy stated that their decision follows a resolution passed on August 9. They are demanding the removal of job reservation policies for the seven backward tribes of Nagaland.

Key Points

• Ajay Kumar Bhalla sworn in as 22nd Governor of Nagaland

• Ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, Kohima with CM Neiphiu Rio and other leaders

• Rashtriya Salute received by Nagaland Police Mahila (IR) contingents

• Expressed gratitude, humility, and responsibility in office

• Five tribal bodies declined invitation over job reservation policy