DIMAPUR, MARCH 10 (MExN): The Nagaland GBs Federation (NGBF) in its meeting deliberating on the roles and responsibilities of the GBs, stated that the GBs should play the role of “peacemakers and not be part with promoters of violence.”
This was stated during an executive meeting of the NGBF in Dimapur on March 8. A press note from the NGBF informed that the meeting was attended by district GBs associations from all districts, and presided over by the NGBF President.
Referring to the recent unfortunate events in the state with relation to the ULB poll issue, the NGBF stated that it has “from the very beginning opposed the 33% women’s reservation and accordingly we have submitted memorandums to the government followed by several appeals published in print media.”
“As an elderly organization we have trusted our government, tribal Hohos, and NGOs, spiritual groups, scholars and intellectual leaders for some meaningful outcome and we still stand on our commitment,” it stated.
It however stated that the women’s reservation turning into “such an unimaginable situation that would lead to the death of our precious youth’s lives was not expected.”
In an effort to “do something for peace and harmony,” the NGBF informed that it had convened an executive meeting on February 15, “with the only intention to bring peace in our Land.”
“But our innocent and sincere effort was abruptly interrupted by Joint Co-ordination committee (JCC) Summon Letter and we humbly abided by their command and so the GBs of Nagaland (the First institution that existed before the British regime) capitulated before JCC and thereafter, the NGBF was only allowed at the meeting to munch through what they (JCC) query about the GBs of Nagaland… (I)When Nagaland GBs Federation was formed (II) who told you GBs are the custodians of the customary laws? Never do repeat this word in Nagaland or face dire consequences. (III) What powers do GBs have? GBs have no powers and we don’t recognize GBs. (IV) In our tribe, GBs are never included in Important decision making nor account for. (V) Within 24 hrs from now, Nagaland GBs Federation should press release Chief Minister’s resignation,” it claimed.
The NGBF expressed pain and surprise at the “dictatorial and condemnation statement of the JCC leaders,” and stated that “such a juvenile utterance about Naga’s historical Identity by the Naga leaders was lamented and condemned by the members present at the meeting.”
It meanwhile further appealed to the Naga women groups to “withdraw their cases from the Court and settle the differences within a family.” The NGBF also urged to the Nagaland State Government to “approach any issue in a more sensible and committed manner in future.”
