Fazl Ali College in Mokokchung organises a debate examining the constitutional protections under Article 371A.
MOKOKCHUNG — The Political Science Association (PSA) of Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung, organised its introductory programme for freshers-cum-3rd PSA Debate on the theme, “Article 371A: Does it really protect the interests of Nagaland?” at the college auditorium on Saturday.
Five speakers each represented the 'For' and 'Against the Motion' teams, deliberating on the constitutional provision and its significance for Nagaland.
The discussion provided participants an opportunity to present their respective arguments on the scope and implications of Article 371A.
Molo Jamir, Notary Public and Mediator and President of the Mokokchung District Bar Association, attended as the special invitee and critic.
Read more local news: Salesian College holds blood donation camp in Dimapur
MGM College holds workshop on academic writing, AI tools
In his address, Jamir talked about what Article 371A actually protects, which includes religious or social practices of the Nagas, Naga customary laws and procedures, administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Naga customary law, and ownership and transfer of land and its resources.
He further questioned whether Article 371A really protects Nagaland, stating that while the provision does provide protection, its scope is narrower in that it does not confer a constitutional veto on the state over certain issues.
At the same time, he noted that the provision is more significant than is sometimes assumed, as it creates a constitutional safeguard against the automatic application of parliamentary laws in four fundamental areas.