Published by Aloto Naga | September 12, 2025

In a dramatic turn in the Sumi Hoho presidency battle, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India has set aside a Gauhati High Court order. It directed the Dimapur Civil Court to decide the dispute within eight weeks. The case challenges whether Vihuto Assumi, elected as President in July 2024, meets the mandatory age requirement.

Age Eligibility Dispute at the Core

The controversy centers on Article 7.10 of the Sumi Hoho Constitution. This article requires the President to be at least 50 years old. Petitioners argue that Assumi, born on June 29, 1977, was only 47 when elected. His driving license, HSLC certificate, and pension book were cited as evidence. Also Read Sümi Hoho Bans Changes to Traditional Attire

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Supreme Court Clears the Way for Trial

The Supreme Court bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi ruled that the High Court’s injunction stopping Assumi from holding office was premature. Instead, it instructed the Dimapur Civil Court to:

Hear the maintainability of the case and decide within eight weeks.
Receive written statements from Assumi and Sumi Hoho within two weeks.
Allow rejoinders from the plaintiffs within one week thereafter.
Let Assumi continue as President until the Civil Court issues its ruling.

Article 371-A Claims Dismissed

The Court also dismissed media claims that Article 371-A of the Indian Constitution shields Assumi’s presidency under Naga customary law. It clarified that the Sumi Hoho, founded in 1980, is a modern organization formed under Article 19(1)(c), the constitutional right to form associations. It has no roots in traditional Naga institutions and is not governed by the Nagaland Village and Tribal Councils Act, 1978. Also Read Judge Booked for Rs 14.35 Lakh Bail Fund Misuse

Case Still Open in Dimapur

Importantly, the Supreme Court has not endorsed Assumi’s presidency. Instead, it remanded the case for evidence-based adjudication. He must prove his age compliance within the two-week deadline.

The ruling underscores that the future of the Sumi Hoho leadership will be decided only after a transparent trial in Dimapur Civil Court. It will not be settled through speculation or political narratives.