SC
Jamir speaking at the event in Dimapur on Friday.
DIMAPUR — A call
for serious introspection resonated through the North East Zone Cultural Centre
(NEZCC) on Friday as the Ao Youth Forum Diphupar, in collaboration with the
NEZCC, hosted ‘Culture Connect–The Hills Resonate.’
The event featured former chief minister SC Jamir as a
special guest, who delivered an address reflecting on the political, social,
economic, and religious landscape of the Naga people.
Jamir emphasised the unique position of the Naga Hills,
stating that the region was deliberately chosen by a higher power. He
underscored Christianity's crucial role in shaping Naga political
consciousness.
Drawing on historical context, Jamir noted that the Naga
people, possessing a heightened political awareness during the colonial era,
joined the global movement for decolonisation after World War II, initiating
their own struggle for freedom.
He recalled a time when the entire Naga population stood
united, guided by the principles of unity and Christian values, striving for a
land of harmony, mutual respect, and honesty.
However, Jamir questioned the current state of affairs,
lamenting the prevalence of egoism, tribalism, and division.
He contrasted the selflessness of past leaders like AZ
Phizo, who sacrificed everything for the Naga people, with the current trend of
self-interest and the creation of personal domains.
He urged the gathering to critically examine the present-day
Naga situation and strive to reclaim the unity and shared values of the past.
The former chief minister called upon Naga people,
particularly the younger generation studying political science, to critically
analyse Naga politics and determine if it truly reflects the needs and desires
of its people.
He underscored the importance of internal reflection and
collaboration rather than divisive criticism.
Jamir also addressed legislators, reminding them of the
weight of their responsibility as the mandated representatives of the Naga
people. He urged them to engage with the government of India and various Naga
groups, pushing for an early resolution to the Indo-Naga issue.
He expressed confidence in the resilience of the Naga
identity and Christian faith, encouraging the people to embrace unity and reconciliation.
"Let us foster the spirit of oneness, the spirit of
reconciliation, and the spirit of unity among us. Forgive and forgive," he
said and stressed the need for Naga leaders, civil societies, and churches to
unite and overcome societal divisions.
Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change &
Village Guards, CL John, echoed the call for unity, underlining the need to
eradicate tribalism and strengthen wildlife protection measures.
MLA & Leader of Naga People's Front Legislator Party,
Kuzholuzo Nienu, added his voice to the chorus, stressing the importance of
cohesive understanding amongst all tribes and highlighting the detrimental
impact of tribalism on Nagaland's society.
He warned that unchecked divisions could have dire
consequences for future generations.
The NP leader further lamented the erosion of core values
like honesty, unity, hard work, and God-fearing principles while expressing
concern over the increasing influence of negative practices such as abduction
and extortion. He described these practices as "parasitic" to Naga
society.
Greetings were also delivered by Dr. Tseilhoutuo Ato Rhütso,
MLA and chairman of DPDB Kohima, and Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA and chairman of
DPDB Wokha.
SC
Jamir speaking at the event in Dimapur on Friday.