Much have been said and written for and against 33% Women Reservation in civic bodies in Nagaland, and now with the Governor’s Notification on Municipal Election on 15th March, the Government seems set to go ahead with the implementation. This article is written without any prejudices to either of the gender but with a hope that this can somehow help in forming public opinion and influence our policy makers to take the best decision for the Naga society because a law once implemented continues to go on for quite some time.
No doubt, in Nagaland like in most part of India, women are inadequately represented in decision making bodies and organizations, as a result of which, we had missed the much needed inputs and wisdom of women folks in quality governance for a long time. The Government must seriously do something to address the problem of women’s marginalization in decision making processes. Having said that, the decision of the Government of Nagaland to implement 33% reservation for women in civic bodies seems to be not the wisest decision considering the practical problem in its implementation and the reality at which the Naga society is at.
Firstly, let us consider the rights of man or for that matter the political rights of every citizen under the constitution of India. If a particular ward is reserved exclusively for women where a man who is projected to become a very influential leader lives, then where does he go? It is not only his right that is going to be denied, but the town will also lose a leader who can bring great changes and usher in peace and development. So why can’t we elect the best leader for our council irrespective of gender? Capable women can still contest and get elected so why should a man’s rights be denied in our quest to empower women.
Secondly, leaving aside Kohima, Dimapur and Mokokchung, with no offence to anyone I’m very doubtful if other towns have enough competent women candidate who could stand tall and work progressively for their wards or towns. After the declaration of reserved ward by the Government, the hunt for the most suitable candidate has begun and it is very disheartening to see that some women who have never bothered about what is going on in the society nor have any knowledge of governance or development are approached to contest. And these people will get elected because it is reserved, occupy the most important chairs and take decisions which we will all be bound to follow. What a way to go, instead of hoping and looking forward to see a more vibrant and progressive society the future looks more gloomy and bleak now.
If the Government really wants to have more women representation in civic or legislative bodies, then a system should be work out in such a way that the most able men and women be accommodated. So why not have Women Nominee with equal powers and functions as that of elected members? Capable women can still contest against anyone and get elected. This way we can have more representation from women and at the same time, eligible men will not be denied of his opportunity to make an impact in the society.
Time for not only the male dominated tribal hohos and organizations to shout against the policy, but also time for frontal women organization like NMA to think twice…
Alum Zeliang
Jalukie town
