Democracy in Action
It’s raining protests and ultimatums in Nagaland of late, with various civil society organisations expressing displeasure over the state government’s actions.
- It’s raining protests and ultimatums in Nagaland of late,
with various civil society organisations expressing displeasure over the state
government’s actions or lack thereof on several pressing matters. This week
alone saw a few protests, the notable ones being the resumption of agitation
against the regularisation of 147 assistant professors and librarians
spearheaded by the Combined Technical Association Nagaland (CTAN) and the
Nagaland NET Qualified Forum (NNQF), before the Naga Students’ Federation jumped
on the bandwagon on Tuesday, while the stir against the government of India’s
decision to build fence along the Indo-Myanmar border and scrap the free
movement regime (FMR) has gained steam. Mass rallies against the central
government’s move were held back-to-back this week -- across eastern districts
of Nagaland on Monday and at Avakhung International Trade Centre in Phek
district on the following day. Similar protests have been held in other parts
of the state and in Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur over the past few weeks.
What is common between these two pressing issues that have triggered widespread
agitations is both will affect the general public if allowed. Sensing the
legitimate demand of agitators, the governor has revoked the absorption notification
of 147 contractual posts, a move that should have been taken swiftly after
being caught red-handed. The government of the day took longer than it should
to take corrective measures in the matter, but we can take solace in the fact
that it is paying attention to the grievances and needs of the people and is
not averse to change in the interest of the public. On the border fencing and
FMR issues too, the state assembly has passed a resolution against it, so the
ball is now in the court of the centre. The government of India has nothing to
lose by respecting the sentiments of the Nagas, who share long-standing
historical, cultural, and economic ties predating independent India.
- In a democracy, listening to the voice of the people is
essential, as the political system is built on the core principle that the
ultimate power is with the citizens. There is space for protest, dissent, and
criticism in a democracy, unlike authoritarian governments. The world has
witnessed protest reshaping the political landscape and democratic processes in
several countries, besides bringing about change, advancing human rights, and
fighting injustice. This tool is being effectively used in Nagaland to promote
meritocracy and fight corruption on several occasions. Amid growing intolerance
to dissent around the world, this trend – abundance of protests – can be taken
in a positive light- that democracy is alive and kicking in the state. Active
participation of the public in monitoring and holding the government
accountable for its actions amid the absence of an opposition party in the
assembly is also a sign of a healthy democracy and that citizens are informed
and aware of their rights. What needs to be checked is misuse of rights, as
violent protests can undermine the principles of democracy.
