Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister, TR Zeliang. (File Photo)
Kohima, November 11 (MExN): Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister in charge of National Highways, TR Zeliang on November 11 urged village councils to safeguard the Naga customary system, warning that it is “on the verge of going into oblivion.”
Addressing a public gathering at Jalukiejangdi village during the inauguration of a council hall, Zeliang stated that village councils are the custodians of the customary system and its practices, stated a press release issued by the media cell, Dy CM office.
Asserting that customary laws and practices cannot be completely done away with, he said, “every Naga should be well verse about their respective customary laws and its practices.” He emphasized the need to frame uniform customary laws for the entire state to make them more popular and effective.
Zeliang said although Article 371 A of the Indian Constitution grants Nagas the liberty to practice their customary laws, “it is under threat and on the verse of going into oblivion.”
He added that unlike the Indian judiciary system, Naga customary practices are “simple but effective in delivering justice,” involving less encumbrance, prompt action, and lower financial expenditure.
The Dy CM also urged people to protect land and its resources for the sake of future generations, stating that the practice of selling land by council chairmen or GBs without consulting the public “should completely stop.”
The inauguration programme was attended by leaders of various villages, district administrations, officers, and the public.
