In Nagaland, known for its strong community bonds and deep faith, there is a silent struggle that many face alone. It is the struggle against stigma, the unfair shame and isolation felt by those who are different, who are unwell, or who have stumbled in life.
Whether it is someone living with a health condition like HIV & AIDS or mental illness, a person recovering from addiction, or someone who has made a mistake, one often see them being pushed to the edges of the society. There is whisper and judgement. This happens largely due to lack of understanding, and when there is ignorance, there is fear.
But is this the Naga way? The need for human compassion has never been greater. Compassion is not just feeling sorry for someone; it is an active choice to understand, to stand beside and to restore dignity. It is the very heart of the teachings the Naga way of life hold dear. Yet, there is a critical need for stronger guidance and preaching from the churches. The Naga churches, often regarded as the cornerstone of the communities, have a powerful voice and a sacred duty. The pulpit must not only speak of salvation for the soul but also of kindness, acceptance and practical love for the neighbour in distress. Sermons on love must translate into action that embraces the stigmatised.
The Naga society need pastors and church leaders to clearly teach that illness is not a sin, that recovery is possible, and that agape love excludes no one. This spiritual guidance, paired with community efforts, can shatter the walls of stigma.
So, what can we do? The start can be from educating ourselves with correct information about health and social issues. To choose kindness over gossip, speak words that heal and do not wound. To be the support and participate in programmes that offer genuine support, not judgment.
Building a truly inclusive Nagaland starts in the hearts, homes and churches. Let the Naga way be one that replaces stigma with support, fear with friendship, and isolation with inclusion.
