Besesayo Kezo, IPS (Retd DGP)
Introduction: A State Forged in the Crucible of Conflict
The story of Nagaland is a powerful and complex narrative that transcends the simple account of state formation. It is a saga deeply intertwined with the threads of a fiercely defended identity, a long and often violent struggle for self-determination, and the enduring quest for recognition and autonomy. Born from the territories of Assam in 1962, Nagaland, the sixteenth jewel in India's federal crown, emerged amidst the lingering smoke of conflict and political turmoil. While the achievement of statehood was undoubtedly a momentous occasion for many Nagas, a hard-won victory in pursuing their distinct cultural and political aspirations, it also planted the seeds of a profound paradox. This contradiction continues to shape the region's destiny: the potential fragmentation of Naga unity itself. This inherent tension, a bittersweet symphony of triumph and trepidation, continues to resonate through the hills and valleys of Nagaland, influencing its socio-political landscape and casting long shadows over its present and future trajectory.
The creation of Nagaland, intended to be a resolution to the complex “Naga question,” inadvertently drew a dividing line, a demarcation that accentuated the differences and disparities between those Indigenous Nagas fortunate enough to reside within the newly defined boundaries of the state and those who found themselves relegated to its periphery, their voices often marginalized in the neighbouring states of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam. This geographical and political division, frequently fueled by unequal development and unequal access to opportunities, nurtured a sense of estrangement, a quiet but persistent undercurrent of resentment that continues to flow beneath the surface of Naga society. The relative progress and development experienced by the people of Nagaland, while a testament to the state's potential and growth, became a stark and sometimes painful reminder of the challenges, struggles, and feelings of exclusion faced by their Naga brethren living across state borders.
The Precarious Existence of the Naga Diaspora
For the Naga communities dispersed outside the geographical limits of Nagaland, life often presents itself as a precarious balancing act, a constant and delicate negotiation of identity, survival, and belonging. Frequently subjected to the numerical and sometimes cultural dominance of non-Naga populations, these communities navigate a complex and often challenging terrain marked by economic vulnerability, social discrimination, and political disempowerment. They often find themselves relegated to a minority status, a position that inherently limits their access to opportunities and curtails their fundamental rights, the very rights that the creation of Nagaland was, at least in part, intended to uphold and protect. The promises of equality, inclusivity, and justice, the very cornerstones of India's democratic ideals, often seem like distant and elusive dreams, obscured by the harsh realities of their daily existence and the systemic challenges they face.
This pervasive sense of being “othered,” of being excluded from the perceived benefits and advantages of statehood, has cultivated a deep-seated sense of injustice and frustration among the Nagas living in the diaspora. A sense of fragmentation, of fractured loyalties and competing interests, has emerged as a significant threat, potentially unraveling the very fabric of Naga society. The concept of the state itself, intended to be a unifying force, a symbol of collective identity and shared aspirations, has instead, in some instances, become a battleground of conflicting narratives and competing claims, a source of division rather than cohesion.
Article 371(A): A Shield of Identity, a Source of Contention
At the very core of Nagaland's unique identity and its complex and often nuanced relationship with the Indian Union lies Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, a provision that functions as both a protective shield and, arguably, a potential source of contention. This article enshrines special and specific protections for the residents of Nagaland, safeguarding their distinct identity, their rich and diverse cultural heritage, their traditional practices, and, perhaps most importantly, their land rights. It stands as a powerful testament to the recognition of the Naga people's unique and often turbulent history, their fierce and unwavering sense of self, and the critical need to preserve their distinct way of life in the face of rapid modernization and the homogenizing forces of globalization.
Article 371(A) grants Nagaland a significant degree of autonomy, a level of self-governance that is unparalleled in many other states within the Indian Union. It stipulates that no act of the Indian Parliament shall apply to the state unless it is specifically ratified and endorsed by the Nagaland State Assembly. This provision reflects the aspirations of the state government to establish the State Assembly as the ultimate authority in matters concerning these special protections, ensuring that the laws enacted by the Parliament do not automatically extend into the state's jurisdiction, thereby safeguarding its unique socio-political framework and preserving its distinct cultural identity from external imposition.
However, the implementation and interpretation of Article 371(A) have been fraught with complexities and challenges, often leading to contentious debates, political disagreements, and periods of instability. The state government's efforts to fully leverage the potential of this provision and assert its autonomy have sometimes been met with resistance and limited success, fostering considerable tension and friction between the central government and the state authorities. The Centre, understandably concerned about maintaining the unity and territorial integrity of the nation, is often hesitant to fully concede to the state's interpretation and demands regarding these special provisions, leading to a delicate and often strained relationship between the two entities.
Furthermore, there have been instances where state governments, grappling with the day-to-day challenges of governance and political maneuvering, have demonstrated a lack of comprehensive understanding and the necessary political acumen to effectively navigate the intricate implications of these special provisions. The degree of autonomy granted to Nagaland under Article 371(A) is, without a doubt, a double-edged sword, offering both immense potential for self-determination and the inherent risk of misuse, misinterpretation, or political exploitation for short-term gains.
Echoes of the Past: A History of Resistance and Resilience
To truly and comprehensively understand the present-day complexities of Nagaland, it is absolutely essential to delve into the rich and often turbulent historical context that shaped its creation, a history marked by unwavering resistance, remarkable resilience, and the enduring quest for self-determination that has defined the Naga people for generations. The establishment of the state was, in many ways, a political compromise, a strategic move by the Indian government aimed at addressing the long-standing and deeply felt grievances of the Naga people, who had for decades felt marginalized, neglected, and often misunderstood by the governments of Assam and India.
The Naga struggle for self-determination is a narrative that predates India's independence, its roots tracing back to the early 20th century, specifically to 1929, when the Naga Club, a nascent political
organization representing Naga aspirations, articulated their demands for recognition, autonomy, and the right to self-determination to the Simon Commission. The denial of these early demands and the subsequent lack of meaningful engagement fueled a growing sense of discontent, alienation, and frustration, which eventually erupted into a violent and protracted uprising in the 1950s. Naga nationalists, employing guerrilla warfare tactics against the Indian Army, challenged their forced integration into the Indian Union, leading to a bloody and protracted conflict that would leave deep scars on the landscape and the collective memory of the Naga people for generations to come.
The human cost of this conflict was immense, with significant casualties on both sides. Tragically, the civilian Naga population, often caught in the crossfire, bore a disproportionate burden of the violence, suffering, and displacement. The Indian Army, operating under the shadow of the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), was granted extraordinary powers, which often led to widespread and credible allegations of human rights abuses. This stringent and draconian law, designed to quell the insurgency and restore order, has been heavily criticized by human rights organizations for providing impunity to security personnel, resulting in numerous instances of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, torture, and the destruction of entire villages as collective punishment for perceived acts of defiance against the state.
The Pragmatic Choice: Statehood as a Path to Survival
Faced with the grim and increasingly likely prospect of cultural assimilation and potential annihilation, a faction of progressive and pragmatic Nagas made a difficult but ultimately fateful decision. They accepted the Indian government's offer of a separate state within the Indian Union, a move that promised, at least on paper, to safeguard their unique identity, their rich and diverse cultural practices, and their ancestral land rights, even though it was a solution that was perceived by some as flawed, incomplete, and a potential betrayal of the ultimate goal of complete and unfettered independence.
This decision, however, was not met with universal approval or acceptance within the Naga community. It ignited feelings of resentment, betrayal, and deep division among those who continued to champion the cause of complete sovereignty and unwavering independence, leading to a tragic and deeply regrettable chapter of internecine violence. This fratricidal conflict resulted in further bloodshed, loss of life, and the deepening of existing wounds within the Naga community.
Despite the internal strife, the deep divisions within the Naga political landscape, and the lingering sense of unfulfilled aspirations, the state of Nagaland was eventually established, largely through the determined efforts of those Nagas who believed in engaging with the Indian Union and working within its framework, and with the support and backing of the Indian government. However, for many, this development represented a compromise, a dilution of their inherent rights, and a painful surrender of their long-cherished dream of complete and unfettered independence, a dream that, even today, continues to flicker in the hearts and minds of many Nagas, a testament to the enduring power of the quest for self-determination.
The Unfinished Symphony: The Enduring Quest for Independence
The Naga independence movement, therefore, did not simply vanish or disappear with the creation of the state. Instead, it underwent a process of transformation and evolution, adapting to the changing political landscape and dividing its proponents into various factions, often categorized as extremists and moderates, a phenomenon observed in countless historical freedom struggles and movements for self-determination across the globe. Ironically, the very generosity and accommodation shown by the Government of India and its citizens have, in a way, allowed the pursuit of independence to persist, manifesting itself in both overt and covert forms among certain sections of the Naga population, a testament to the complexities of identity, history, and political aspirations.
This enduring struggle underscores identity politics' profound and often volatile significance in the Naga context. It provides a sense of belonging, a source of solace, and a constant reminder of their perceived indestructible inherent rights and original demands for complete self-determination. The quest for self-determination, therefore, remains a potent and often unpredictable force shaping the political discourse and social dynamics of Nagaland. It is a constant reminder of the unresolved issues, historical grievances, and deeply held aspirations that continue to influence the region's trajectory.
The Paradox of Progress: Development and its Discontents
The establishment of Nagaland as a state has undoubtedly spurred economic development and brought about significant progress in various sectors, leading to infrastructure, education, and healthcare improvements. However, this progress has been accompanied by a host of complex and often deeply troubling challenges, most notably the deeply entrenched problem of corruption and the widening chasm of social, political, and economic inequality. These issues threaten to undermine the very foundations of Naga society and erode the hard-won gains of development.
Historically, the Naga people thrived under a system of robust egalitarianism. This social structure deeply valued equality, community well-being, and collective decision-making. Governance was rooted in the principles of direct democracy, practiced through the unique and sophisticated system of village-state governance, a system that, remarkably, bears a striking resemblance to the governance structures of ancient Greek city-states. This system fostered social and economic equality, where status and privileges were earned through a combination of seniority in age, achievements on the battlefield, and the tradition of hosting merit feasts, rather than being inherited through lineage, hereditary titles, or monarchical rule, emphasizing the importance of achievement and contribution over inherited privilege.
The Village Council: A Bulwark of Tradition and Justice
The cornerstone of this traditional governance structure was the Village Council, a representative body comprising elders and esteemed members of the community, individuals who were deeply respected for their wisdom, experience, and unwavering integrity. This council held supreme authority in law-making, judicial administration, and executive functions, wielding significant power and influence within the village community. Operating on the principles of republicanism, the Village Council firmly rejected arbitrary rule, striving for justice, fairness, and the collective good in its decision-making processes, ensuring that the community's interests were always prioritized over individual gain.
Governance was deeply rooted in long-standing traditions and cultural practices, which commanded all community members' respect and unwavering obedience. These customary laws were considered sacred, carrying immense social and moral weight, shaping the behavior and interactions of individuals within the community and maintaining social order. Notably, capital punishment was a rarity in this traditional system, reflecting a preference for restorative justice, which sought to repair harm and restore relationships, over retributive punishment, which focused on punishment and vengeance. Instead, severe offenses were met with alternative forms of punishment, such as social boycotts, ex-communication, and exile, which, despite not involving physical violence, carried significant social stigma and served as powerful deterrents against wrongdoing, highlighting the importance of social cohesion and community accountability.
Civil disputes were typically resolved through traditional mechanisms such as oath-taking and formal swearing, often involving the payment of compensation for damages or the issuance of public apologies to the affected community. These practices held considerable social significance, as the stigma and disgrace associated with wrongdoing could severely and negatively impact an individual's social standing, communal participation, and even their prospects for marriage, underscoring the importance of maintaining social harmony, upholding community values, and adhering to ethical principles. Retribution, when deemed necessary to restore balance, was often administered on a reciprocal basis, reflecting the absence of a formal monetary system and emphasizing the principles of balance, equity, and fairness within the community.
The Erosion of Values: Modernity's Shadow and the Rise of Corruption
In stark and often troubling contrast to this traditional framework, today's Naga community finds itself deeply integrated within a modern democratic system frequently plagued by corruption, the undue influence of wealth and power, and a gradual but persistent erosion of traditional values. The governance structure is often skewed in favour of affluent individuals, who wield significant and often disproportionate influence, both directly and indirectly, particularly in the electoral process, where money plays a decisive and often corrupting role, undermining the principles of free and fair elections.
Despite governmental regulations aimed at curbing excessive campaign expenditures and promoting transparency in political funding, adherence to these regulations remains weak, ineffective, and often easily circumvented, creating an uneven playing field and undermining the very foundations of democratic participation. Consequently, elected officials often find themselves in a precarious and ethically challenging position, facing the daunting task of reconciling their oaths to their constituents and their commitment to a higher moral authority with the often-conflicting realities of political expediency and the pervasive pressures of financial obligations.
A disturbing paradox has emerged in contemporary Naga society, a deeply troubling contradiction that threatens to undermine the very fabric of the community: while public pronouncements often condemn dishonesty and corruption, such behaviour is frequently tacitly accepted, even normalized, as a necessary evil, an unavoidable consequence of the pursuit of economic progress and the acquisition of political power. This moral ambiguity, this erosion of ethical boundaries, raises profound and deeply troubling questions about the community's commitment to its traditional values, its professed Christian principles, and its overall ethical compass.
There is a growing dissonance, a troubling disconnect, between the image that the Naga community projects to the outside world – an image often characterized by intense cultural pride, deep religious faith, and a rich tradition of community values – and the often-harsh realities of its internal dynamics, where corruption and ethical compromises are increasingly prevalent. While there is often a vocal affirmation of the moral virtues inherent in the Naga tradition, these ideals are frequently contradicted by daily practices, societal norms, and the prevailing political culture, creating a climate of moral ambiguity and ethical confusion. The erosion of moral integrity has become a severe and pervasive concern, with open and honest discussions about ethical conduct diminishing in both professional and informal settings. Conversations increasingly revolve around the deeply entrenched issues of ethical and political corruption, causing widespread dismay, disillusionment, and a growing sense of cynicism among the few remaining individuals who remain steadfastly committed to honesty, integrity, and the pursuit of justice.
The consequences of this moral decline are far-reaching and potentially catastrophic, threatening to undermine the very foundations of Naga society and jeopardize its future. No community can achieve true and lasting greatness or sustainable progress without a strong foundation of moral integrity, and a commitment to ethical conduct that permeates all aspects of society, from governance and business to social interactions and personal behaviour. Achievements built on unethical practices are ultimately hollow, unsustainable, and ultimately self-defeating, lacking the legitimacy and moral authority necessary for long-term success. Material success, gained through dubious means and at the expense of ethical principles, is ephemeral, fleeting, and may ultimately be inherited by those who do not deserve it, further perpetuating the cycle of corruption, inequality, and social injustice.
A Call for Transformation: The Imperative of Ethical Leadership and Moral Renewal
The legacy that the present generation leaves behind will inevitably be subjected to intense and often unforgiving scrutiny by future generations, particularly if its foundations are perceived to be tainted by unethical practices, corruption, and a pervasive disregard for the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability. It is, therefore, imperative that those who have attained positions of power and influence engage in critical self-reflection, examining how they achieved their success and the ethical implications of their actions.
To achieve the collective aspirations of the Naga community and build a future of sustainable progress and prosperity, there is an urgent and critical need to cultivate a new generation of dedicated, principled, and ethical leaders. Through their actions, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the common good, these leaders must demonstrate that success is attainable without resorting to unethical practices, corruption, or the abuse of power. They must embody the potential of modern civilization to be a force for good, a catalyst for positive transformation, rather than a detrimental influence that erodes traditional values and undermines social cohesion. Such leaders possess the potential to revitalize and rejuvenate a society that is currently facing the daunting challenges of moral decline, social fragmentation, and the erosion of trust in its institutions.
In the midst of these complex challenges, transitions, and moral dilemmas, the question that lingers, both literally and metaphorically, is: “What is the anticipated timeline for the appearance of the Messiah to address the challenges facing the declining Naga society?” This poignant question, posed at the end of the article, serves as a powerful reminder of the deep and pervasive yearning for ethical leadership, for a transformative force that can guide the Naga community towards a future of integrity, unity, sustainable progress, and a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
