The newly constructed Village Council Hall of Kejanglwa Village, built under the Department of Under Developed Areas (DUDA), was formally inaugurated by the Deputy Chief Minister, T.R Zeliang, on May 17 in the presence of Deputy Commissioner of Peren, Hiazu Meru, village leaders, and district officials.
According to DIPR report, T.R. Zeliang in his inaugural address, emphasized Nagaland’s distinct system of governance, clarifying that the state does not implement the Panchayati Raj System introduced nationally in 1993.
Instead, Nagaland follows the Village Council System, legally recognized under the Nagaland Village and Area Council Act, 1978, which also led to the formation of the Village Development Board (VDB). He therefore recommended that the hall be referred to as a Village Council Hall rather than a Panchayat Hall.
Highlighting Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, Zeliang reiterated the state’s special constitutional provisions, including the rights to religious and social practices, customary laws, and traditional justice systems.
He noted that, under Zeliangrong customary law, the Village Council Court serves as both the highest and lowest authority in civil and social matters. He warned that bypassing this traditional system by appealing to higher courts could undermine the tribe’s customary authority.
Zeliang also stressed the importance of revitalizing and streamlining the customary governance system, particularly with the support of civil society organizations and tribal bodies. He encouraged Village Councils to work closely with locally posted district officers, including the DC and SP.
Touching upon infrastructure development, Zeliang highlighted ongoing road projects in the district, noting that improved road connectivity will significantly benefit Kejanglwa, linking it more effectively with Jalukie and Peren town.
Other speakers at the event included DC Peren, Hiazu Meru, chairman, Kejanglwa Village Council, Namrachang Hegui and president of Kejanglwa youth organization. The programme was chaired by village council secretary, Hiareu Ndang, and vote of thanks by head GB, Hubagwang.