Nagaland GBs urged to deliver ‘right judgment’

30th general session of Nagaland Gaon Burah Federation held 

Our Correspondent
Phek | April 21

Nagaland Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue and Parliamentary Affairs, Minister, Neiba Kronu today called upon the GBs to deliver the right judgment in any matter concerning the welfare of the Nagas.

Speaking at the 30th general session of Nagaland Gaon Burah (GB) Federation (NGBF) at Phek town, Kronu announced that the government has decided to document the Naga customary law and practices for which collection of such documents from all the tribes has started.

In this, he appealed the GBs to play the pivotal role in documenting the customary law and practices.

Kronu informed the gathering that Nagaland state don’t have proper land laws till date and still using Assam land laws with some amendments.

He said that enactment of Nagaland Land Law is being worked out by the government and it will be tabled for discussion in the state cabinet.

He also sought the support and cooperation of the GBs in bringing out the state’s own land laws.

Also addressing the gathering as the guest of honour, MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu thanked the GBs for their pro active role in protecting the customary law and practices.

He said that they (GBs) should also be the guardian and protectors of Naga traditions as well and set an example for the new generation to follow.

He also stated that it's high time we Nagas have our own written or printed customary law.

Azo suggested that GBs should set a rule that only elderly should be appointed as GB and not someone at the age range of 30-40 years.

Also exhorting the GBs, Nagaland Commissioner Rovilatuo Mor said that GBs institution was introduced since the British regime.

GBs are considered as Assistant to Deputy Commissioner in order to manage the functioning and activities of the district administration, like collection of annual house tax, also maintain law and order for peaceful coexistence while also running the customary court as per the customs and traditions.

They are ex-officio members in the village council and also assist the administration during elections and also pandemic situations, he said.

Appreciating the GBs for extending active cooperation to the administration and government, he informed that the government has decided to provide quality material for red waist coat and blanket.

Expressing concern on the existence of GBs in the towns, he said that the government is reviewing the matter.

He said that suggestions have been put forth for the need of GBs in the towns and municipal areas for better coordination and maintenance of law and order situations.

Saying that GBs are part of government agency, he questioned their involvement in various agitations and political issue.
Expressing that Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India has protected the customary law and the land and resources, he said as the guardians of the customary court, GBs should strengthen the customary court without any political affiliations and vested interest.

Phek, Deputy Commissioner, Razouvolie Dozo said GBs are the backbone of the district administration in various activities.

He said that GBs are rural police empowered to arrest and hear cases while reporting serious cases to the District Administration.

He also put forward suggestion to reconsider the appointment of GBs by increasing the lower age limit and also pondering on the upper age limit to maintain the credibility of GBs.

Delivering the keynote address, NGBF President, L Shahlem Konyak said GB is like a pastor and police while also extending services to tackle law and order situation in villages.

GBs are like volunteers working without any salary for the welfare of the villagers and Naga society in close coordination with the state government, he said.

The session was chaired by NGBF Vice President, Kashito Yepthomi while welcome address was delivered Phek District GB Association president Zadulhu Ringa.

Tuensang District GB Association, President, N Khoniashem proposed of vote of thanks.