DIMAPUR, JULY 11 (MExN): The Eastern Nagaland GB’s Union (ENGBU) has reiterated the continued relevance and constitutional authority of the Goan Burah (GB) institution in both rural and urban areas, expressing concern over the state government’s recent move to keep urban GB appointments in abeyance.
In an emergency meeting held recently, the union thoroughly deliberated on the nomenclature, function, and historical significance of the GB institution. It traced the roots of the GB system to the British Indian administration, noting its formal introduction in 1886 under the Assam Land and Revenue Regulation Act when the Naga Hills were administered under the province of Assam.
The ENGBU stated that since its inception, the institution of Goan Burah or village chief/headman has played a vital role in Naga society, acting as a bridge between the community and the state machinery. GBs support law enforcement agencies, help maintain law and order, and coordinate with various government departments.
The union emphasized that GBs are recognized as legal entities under Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India, which protects and empowers Naga customary law and practices.
Expressing deep concern, the ENGBU highlighted that the government’s decision to temporarily suspend GB appointments in urban areas, as per directives issued by the Commissioner of Nagaland on December 6, 2023, has created a governance vacuum. It said the absence of GBs in urban locations has left the public without local representatives to liaise with the administration and support law and order mechanisms.
The union has appealed to the state government to revoke the suspension of urban GB appointments at the earliest possible, stating that the institution remains an essential component of grassroots governance and community coordination in Nagaland.
