Disabling ability

Like other states, Nagaland has its own social and other problems and when these have not been addressed, they seriously complicate the environment to the extent that today, no one in Nagaland really feels confident enough to say that the future is bright; even though there may be optimists who like to see a ray of light at the other end of the tunnel. Indeed, issues that are political in nature have gotten wedged into society’s growing problems and creating a negative synergy. There are many unaddressed issues that have caused the present socio-political-economic morass. However, amidst the uncertainty the only certainty has been the inequitable distribution of wealth to a few but growing tribe of nouveau riche among the politicians and bureaucrats, through “get rich schemes”. Social problems continue to mount as society is plagued by extortion, joblessness, rising lawlessness, poverty and HIV etc. Unemployment and anti-social crimes are ascending while morality is descending. It is true that many thinkers have lamented over the situation by asking ‘how long can this go on?’ or in other words, how long should people live under these circumstances? The answer appears to still be forthcoming even as the state gears up for choosing the people who are supposed to represent them. The time for a free and frank examination has passed decades ago in order to understand the where’s and whys of how an ideal has metamorphosed into something what it is today. Who can deny that corruption whether by politicians or bureaucrats under whatever nexus under the sky, is as rampant as the fact that in the end, silence or inaction is the response ? Who can also deny that despite all such talks, everyone has a vested interest to profit out of crimes? It would be uncomfortable for all(except perhaps the few insignificant number) if truth were to expose the true colours as light exposes the darkness. For the overwhelming majority of low income groups, prices of essential items continue to rise,making it difficult for them to make both ends meet. The worst lot are those without any regular or stable source of income. This is the ground reality and which has virtually closed all options for economic growth. Even those carrying on business are faced with many problems- no power and no rule of law. Ultimately the cost of the problems are left to be borne by the ignored and ignorant public. To society’s peril are the cacophony of those who seem to reserve the prerogative and space to speak what is scripted and drown the voices of reason. If those in authority claim that peace and development have arrived today, then it is a strange way of explaining various actions that have created deep concern among the ordinary public. Society is suffering in silence and the environment exudes a fissiparous uncertainty that could prove disastrous in the near future. Unity in truth, the first strand of Naga awareness, is being removed and replaced with hegemony. These are just a few of the uncharitable facts that seem to indicate, that society in general and the government in particular, have lost a sense of direction and a responsibility to steer the course towards a vibrant society with a moral authority. The symptoms are deeply concerning and treatment can only happen if people change to bring about the change.