Y Merina Chishi
In recent months, there has been considerable public debate over the Naga political issue. Many writers have raised issues from the past and concerns for the future of the Naga people. Diverse opinions regarding the “solution” have been shared. Most writers have been from the older generation of retired bureaucrats, politicians, academicians, political observers and even theologians. But there is one group of people whose voices remain silent- either by choice or ignorance- on the issue that will perhaps affect them the most: the young Naga generation.
The young Nagas- the most educated, smart and intelligent generation that holds the key to the future is perhaps also the most disconnected from history. This is a generation that has the strength and ability to change the future of the Nagas; yet they would rather spend time on their smart phones than pick up a newspaper to analyse the situation. The curiosity and disinterest is sad as it presents a generation whose future is at stake but still do not know how it all happened.
One can’t entirely blame it on the youngsters. Having been born and brought up in relatively peaceful times, they have only seen the sunny side of life. They have been shielded from violence and other forms of conflicts that has confronted the Nagas for so long. They have not been educated on Naga history and, therefore, do not display any form of connection to their roots. Therefore, there is no curiosity and little or no interest.
This generation has also become the way it is because they want to lead peaceful and purposeful lives, devoid of violence, corruption and tribalism that is slowly eating away our society. It is not that they are totally unaware about the realities confronting them, but they want nothing to do with the “issue” as it has brought only division within the Naga society. Many say: “we need to first fix our own mess.”
The Naga political groups who so fervently claim to be fighting for the rights of Nagas also do not instill a sense of pride among the young generation. To the young Nagas, the groups have become synonymous with “corruption” and “tax”. The Naga political groups have never stimulated discussions on Naga history on public platforms. They have failed to showcase history as a weapon in the struggle for peace to the young generation.
Therefore, Naga history must be re-told; we must stimulate interest in the present generation trough proper education. This doesn’t mean they should dwell in the past but knowing the past opens the door to the future. The Naga struggle should be known to the younger generation in the way it started, not how it is today. Taking pride in our history will make us a powerful force.
The young generation has all the opportunities that the world has to offer. They are filled with dreams and aspirations; they are free to choose their destiny if they will. But to get there, they must know and acknowledge how Nagas have travelled to get this far and how much there is to go.
Comments can be sent to merinachishi@gmail.com
