Nagaland Gaonbura Federation urges govt. to withdraw restrictions on GB appointments

DIMAPUR — The Nagaland Gaonbura Federation (NGBF) has urged the state government to reconsider and withdraw restrictions on the appointment and functioning of gaonburas (GBs) in both urban areas and rural villages, stating that the directives undermine the traditional institution.

The resolution was adopted during the NGBF executive meeting held on October 30 at Hotel Jaal Mahal, Dimapur, following deliberations on matters concerning the federation and the institution of GBs in Nagaland.

The federation expressed “strong opposition and deep disappointment” over the government directives imposing restrictions on the appointment and functioning of GBs, particularly in urban areas. It said the directives were issued despite repeated appeals, representations and clarifications submitted by the federation.

The NGBF also expressed concern that certain provisions of the code of ethics enforced by the state government for GBs appeared to infringe upon the fundamental rights and constitutional freedoms of citizens.

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Emphasising that the institution of gaonburas was an integral part of Naga customary practices, traditions and the traditional system of village administration, the federation said its historical significance, dignity, authority and legitimate role must be recognised, respected and safeguarded by the government.

The meeting also expressed concern over the proliferation of Naga political factions, describing the formation of additional groups, beyond the existing thirty-odd factions, as unwelcome at a time when the Naga people were awaiting an early, peaceful and honourable political solution.

The federation said the public was already facing immense hardship due to multiple taxations imposed by various factions. It appealed to all concerned to refrain from forming further factions and work collectively towards a peaceful and honourable resolution of the Naga political issue.