Dimapur, March 11 (MExN): The Students’ Union Patkai Christian College in association with the Department of Political Science and History organized an interactive session under the theme ‘Naga Political Destiny’’ with an aim of “reckoning the genesis of our nationalism, awakening the generation amidst political confusion (Naga politics)” on March 11 at the college.
Dr. Aküm Longchari, Editor of The Morung Express, who was the resource person of the session, said that a good understanding of the State at the grassroots level, engaging in conversation among the citizens all in the spirit of growing together and good conscience with a proper self realization are the primary essentials for resolving the dilemma which the Nagas are faced with today, according to a press release received here.
“There are two dilemmas which have been prevalent in our state; whether to go where the wind blows and continue with the new pace, or to relocate, retrace and restore our roots. Another option is to create our path leading to the fulfilment of our destiny. The power lies not with the upper section of the political structure but with the common mass,” he stated.
The key reasons behind “our” chaos, Longchari pointed out, are the absence of shared analysis, no questioning of the structure of power, and critiques which are limited to the function of power. “There is the need to re-conceptualize power, as in there has to be exercise of power with the people and not over the people.”
Real power, he said, lies in its redefinition which leads to transformation.
On queries regarding the ignorance and disinterest of most youth in the matters of politics, he stated that it is due to the wrong conception of politics which has been ingrained into the minds of most youth of today.
“Greater sense of purpose of existence, self awareness of being a Naga, and the broad understanding of the term ‘politics’ are necessary in order to remedy these issues,” Longchari added. “Naga consciousness will get rid of groupism and instill in us a natural response as to who we are as a people,” he affirmed.
The speaker further stated that youth of the generation must struggle not just for unity but for unity in purpose which will result in the much desired Naga reconciliation. Looking forward to the future and reckoning what has been will tell us what we should do, he maintained. “Truth, justice Mercy and peace should go hand in hand for reconciliation of the divided Nagas.”
Many questions were raised by students and the speaker addressed each of them, the release said. The session was chaired by Imkongnukla Ao.
