DIMAPUR, APRIL 20 (DIPR): Minister for PHE, P. Longon said it is the responsibility of Dobashis (customary law guardians) to convey the message of justice to the people of Nagaland. Speaking at the inaugural function of the Nagaland Dobashi’s Association Conference at Noklak on April 19 as the chief guest, Longon said that the society expects high service from both administrative and judicial power.
Stressing on the social life of the Nagas, the minister said that Nagas have a community life since the beginning and stated how their forefathers acknowledged friendship of the elders and rulers developing strong feelings of oneness. Acknowledging the theme of the conference ‘Backbone of Administration’ the Minister said that the challenging objective of the DBs is upholding the district administration in various duties and functions. Referring to the preservation of customs and traditions, Longon said that the Nagas have a rich cultural heritage and the DBs are expected to be the legal guardian of these traditional practices.
He also emphasized on the advancement of mankind and encouraged the DBs to look for wider perspectives. He said that love, truth and justice should rule their hearts and that science and technology should be put to good use along with Naga customary traditions. "A race without culture is a race lost", the minister said and maintained that the people should ensure preservation of culture and rededicate themselves to the service of the people.
Stressing on the need for peace and prosperity, Longon said that to reach the desired goal the people should play their roles so that peace prevails in the society. He further appealed to the DBs to ensure sanctity of justice in maintaining law and order in the society.
Earlier short speeches were delivered by President, KTC, P. Pongon and Rtd. PA to DC, Hevuto. The Welcome speech was delivered by Head DB Noklak, Beshem.
Additional Chief Secretary and Commissioner, Nagaland, T.N. Mannen dwelt at length on striving for quality improvement of the DBs. Speaking on the topic ‘Backbone of Administration’, Mannen said that the Commissioner’s office intends to bring about positive changes in the Dobashi’s set up.
He informed the gathering that a new waist coat is being designed which is a modification of the old one that has been in existence for about a century. He also directed regular court attendance by the DBs, maintenance of landmark judgment cases, regular debates on Naga customary laws as assignments and conducting of study tours to enhance knowledge of the DBs on various customary usages and practices of various areas in the State. He further emphasized on the importance of the recruitment policy of the DBs which is under examination by the Department considering that the upholding of justice through various customary laws and practices in settling relevant disputes, the selection of a knowledgeable candidate is of paramount importance.
Stating that the DBs are the custodians of customary law Mannen said that the main responsibility of the DBs is preservation and improvement of customary and judicial practices. He further urged the DBs to uphold social interpretation and unity in the society and not to politicize the organization.
ADC Noklak who also exhorted the gathering said that the DBs are a unique institution and no State in the India has this type of a setup. He challenged the DBs to make the institution better and set an example for others also. Stating that DBs are a part of the district administration and its first duty is maintenance of peace, law and order and security, the ADC said that they should tread with caution and be responsible and work hard. He also said that the duties of the DBs are delicate and sensitive since they are the eyes, ears, hands and feet of the district administration and urged the DBs to know their role so that mistakes will not be committed.
A short speech was also delivered by Rtd. PA to DC, M. Toshi. The programme was chaired by DB Kiphire, Lothang.
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