Nagaland Gaon Bura Federation opposes changes to role, nomenclature

• DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Gaon Bura Federation (NGBF) has reiterated its strong opposition to any proposal seeking to alter the nomenclature or roles of the Gaon Buras (GBs), whether in urban or rural areas.
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• In a press release on Saturday, the federation stated that the identity and authority of the Naga people are deeply rooted in the customary system, with the GBs as custodians of Naga customary law, traditions, and practices.
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• The federation also asserted that this customary system remains valid and recognised regardless of whether Nagas reside in rural villages or urban settlements.
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• “The institution of the Gaon Bura was established as early as the 18th century and remains the oldest traditional institution in the state. Its functioning is intrinsically woven into the customary laws and practices of the Naga people.
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• “Under this time-tested system, village elders and Gaon Buras were vested with administrative and judicial powers, which have proven to be beneficial and effective in the governance and judicial framework of the state,” the NGBF maintained.

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• It also mentioned that Naga territories are based on a cohesive clan-based village system, which continues to be preserved even in new and urban settlements.
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• Pointing out that any alteration to this age-old institution, including changes in its nomenclature or role, would have unforeseen and far-reaching consequences, the federation cautioned that such changes risk marginalising and eventually dismantling the institution of the GBs.
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• It went on to state that with the continuing process of urbanisation, many traditional villages in Nagaland are being converted into towns and cities.
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• “If this trend continues without adequate safeguards, the institution of the GBs may face complete erasure,” the NGBF stated.
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• The federation appealed to the Government of Nagaland to “reconsider and revoke the recent order that puts in abeyance any proposals for fresh or replacement of GBs,” as per the Commissioner of Nagaland’s order dated December 6, 2023.
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• “The federation remains committed to safeguarding the integrity and continuity of this esteemed institution and urges the government to respect and uphold the customary values and traditional governance of the Naga people,” it added.