Dr Asangba Tzüdir
The agreement between the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) and the Nagaland State Government to postpone the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) elections in principle for two months under the initiative of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) evaporated in thin air as ‘unconfirmed news’ circulated on social media. The State Cabinet had decided to go ahead with the ULB elections except in seven ‘troubled’ areas.
This raises serious concerns on the credibility of the Government so also issues of trust, negating the voice and aspirations of the people. The signing of the agreement under the initiative of the NBCC may not have produced the desired effect but it should be lauded for moving out of their comfort zone in playing the timely intervening role both as a mediator and facilitator.
Coming to JCC, the contents of the ‘joint statement’ has only exposed how unclear and unprepared the JCC is. Tables are now turned but in signing such a ‘content’ they have only defeated themselves. They could have negotiated for clearer provisions and terms; and also checked loopholes towards achieving the objective of postponing the elections in totality. Besides being contradictory, the JCC seems to have ignored the larger ‘issues’ while preparing for the immediate ones.
The present imbroglio is compounded by the State Cabinet’s decision to go ahead with the elections selectively leaving out the ‘troubled’ areas by postponing for two months, thereby creating a dramatic shift. This has opened room for speculation as well as confusion.
But, what about the ‘troubled’ areas for which the election was postponed indefinitely? These are not just speculative matters but there are larger contentious issues concerning Article 371A, 33% women reservation and the Municipal Act. Sadly, this decision has closed doors for a possible dialogue which was initiated by the NBCC. It is indeed a missed opportunity.
The bandh is imposed again creating further confusion and depression. As an immediate cause, it will be agonizing to think and speculate about the possible turn of events. One can imagine the possibility of Nagaland flaring up. But, for now and the times to come, the whole issue should serve as a reference point of how Nagas have failed to think positively as a unit towards the collective good of our society.
On the ‘sidelines,’ it is a lesson for the JCC that they need to be well-informed, clear and prepared regarding the issues at hand for which well-informed dialogue is pertinent.
(Comments can be mailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
