Former Nagaland Chief Minister and Governor, Dr. SC Jamir, called up-on the younger generation to critically examine the current state of Naga politics and question the direction of the freedom movement.
He was speaking as the special guest at the Culture Connect event held at the Stone Sculpture Garden, NEZCC, on Friday. The event was organized by the Ao Youth Forum Diphupar in collaboration with the North East Zone Culture Centre.
Dr. Jamir reflected on the history of the Naga freedom movement, highlighting a time during In-dia’s independence struggle when Naga people were united by a common vision based on Chris-tian principles of peace, love, and harmony. He stressed that past Naga leaders aimed for a land characterized by honesty, mutual respect, and unity under God, reminding the audience that “violence begets violence.”
He observed that the state now suffers from factionalism, egoism, and internal divisions. “In-stead of ‘united we stand’ people now live by ‘divided we fall’. That is why Nagaland is known as the land of factions, groups, and divisions,” he remarked.
Comparing the past political landscape, where leaders demonstrated sacrifice, commitment, and dedication, Dr. Jamir expressed concern over the current fragmented political scene. He men-tioned the presence of multiple individuals acting as self-styled leaders, which he felt distorted the concept of sovereignty.
He specifically urged the younger generation and political science students to introspect and as-sess whether contemporary Naga politics truly aligns with the people’s aspirations.
Referring to the Framework Agreement and Agreed Position, he questioned the ongoing pursuit of freedom, stating, “What is this freedom we are seeking when we have already signed two agreements that has already ruled out sovereignty and integration?”
Dr. Jamir asserted that since the Naga Political Groups (NPGs) have formally consented to these agreements, it is now time for elected legislators and the Naga public to collectively push for their implementation, rather than spending time on analysing demands for a separate flag and constitution, which he termed “irrelevant” in the present context.
He noted that this unity persisted for several decades, a period when Nagas identified as one people. Dr. Jamir described this era as one of humility and honesty, referring to Nagaland as the “Switzerland of the East,” a place where Nagas felt pride in their identity. “People were humble, people were honest. And that was what we called Naga land,” he stated.
However, Dr. Jamir pointed to a significant contrast between past and present Nagaland, noting a decline in values and the erosion of unity. “But what kind of Naga world today we live in compared to that beautiful land of ours?” he asked, describing the current situation as “very sad.”
He called for an end to internal criticism and urged comprehensive introspection and retrospec-tion. “Let us not use you, but only we. All the folly is by us and all mistakes are by us,” he main-tained.
Dr. Jamir also addressed the changing political atmosphere in India, suggesting it requires careful examination. He recalled that during his political tenure in the 1960s, legislative discussions fo-cused on national and international issues, contrasting it with current legislative proceedings which he described as often involving quarrelling without focus on broader national concerns. He questioned whether Nagaland should follow this trend or maintain its own path towards unity.
Regarding external influences like the “RSS”, Dr. Jamir suggested Nagas should not be overly concerned if they remain strong in their identity and faith. “If you are strong, if we could with-stand for thousand years to be Naga, to be Christian, should we be afraid of those things? If you are strong, no one will touch you,” he stated.
He called for fostering reconciliation, unity, and forgiveness among Nagas. He suggested that civil societies and churches should work to unite the elements causing division within Naga soci-ety, believing that unity would lead to solutions, peace, and progress.
Reflecting on the event’s purpose, Dr. Jamir stated it was an opportune time for serious reflection on the political, social, economic, and religious landscape of Nagaland. He shared his belief that Nagaland is a land chosen by God, pointing to its distinct Christian identity despite its geograph-ical location. He credited Christianity with fostering both spiritual and political consciousness among Nagas.
Dr. Jamir concluded his address with a renewed call for thorough introspection across all aspects of Naga life. Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, CL John, stressed the imperative to eradi-cate tribalism. He pointed to Diphupar, with its diverse population living harmoniously, as a po-tential model for unity across Nagaland.
He encouraged the community to inspire others towards lasting harmony and environmental conservation. Minister John also advocated for enhanced wildlife protection, referencing the historical ban on headhunting and urging enforcement of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. He drew parallels with Article 371(A), stating that understand-ing environmental laws is crucial for Nagaland’s ecological balance.
Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA and Leader of the NPF Legislature Party, extended Moatsü greetings and spoke on cultural connection for preserving traditions. He underscored the need for inter-tribal understanding and warned against the dangers of unchecked tribalism.
Nienu urged a focus shift, stating that true Naga values lie in honesty, unity, hard work, and faith, which he felt were diminishing. He expressed concern over societal issues like extortion and praised youth ini-tiatives against them. Describing Diphupar as a “Mini Nagaland,” he called for collective efforts towards a united future.
Dr. Tseilhoutuo Ato Rhiitso, MLA and chairman of DPDB Kohima, commended the Ao Youth Forum Diphupar for organizing the gathering. He highlighted that culture extends beyond attire to include traditions and habits that must be preserved for future generations. Dr. Rhiitso empha-sized maintaining customs and identity, acknowledging Christianity’s role in shaping values and urging the community to remain strong.
Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA and chairman of DPDB Wokha, called on the Ao community to embrace their responsibilities as pioneers for a stronger Nagaland. He highlighted the importance of social and political unity.
Recognizing the Ao community’s historical contributions to religion and education, Humtsoe reminded them of their duty to uphold these values and referenced the unfulfilled vision of sending ten thousand missionaries. He urged the community to continue its pioneering role in fostering growth and guiding Nagas towards progress.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Dr Watinaro Longkumer and Limasunep Imchen, opening prayer offered by Pastor, SBCD, Jacob Achumi, and act of blessings by president, Diphupar Ao Senso Telongjem, Imti Imsong.
Short speeches were also delivered by president, AYFD, P Alemba Lemtur, chairman, DVC, Ghuzui Shohe, and benediction offered by Pastor, ABCD, Rec Dr N Lipok Jamir, while message from PHED minister Jacob Zhimomi, was also read out.
Highlights of the event included cultural presentations by Diphupar Angami Community, Rongmei Community Diphupar, Sumi Community Diphupar, Tangkhul Ngarumlong Diphupar, Lotha Community Diphupar, Eastern Nagaland People’s Union Diphupar Area, Rengma Com-munity Diphupar, Chakhesang Community Diphupar, and Diphupar Ao Senso Telongjem, while Dreamz Unlimited acted a play on the theme, “Culture Connect”, and AYFD on the theme, “The Hills Resonate”.