Apropos to the news item Dated 30-01-17, Nagaland Post, “CM warns against disrupting polls”. The Ao Senden refutes the statement made by Honorable Chief Minister T R Zeliang for general clarification and consumption. Nagaland states has its unique status compared to other states which recognizes and assert its identity through Article 371 (A). It is ample clear that within Nagaland every tribal hohos have its own “Right to practice according to its customary tenets and accord”. However, at the present impasse, the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) has not taken any initiative towards the wishes of numerous tribes and to cohesively work together to arrive at an amicable solution at the interest of the Nagas . The government with all means using its power/authority could not be able to convince the tribal hohos in relation to its inherent customary practices whereas the CM tried to intervene/burn his hand by indulging in tribal tradition which is totally illogical and uncalled for and breach against the tribes at the highest order. In Naga context, each and every tribe has its own traditional values which safeguard and maintain its right to exercise. It is with great respect that the Naga tribal co-exists by respecting and non-interfering each other vis-à-vis never impose or condemn to attain mutual understanding and harmony.
There upon, in the rights and duties of Ao-Naga, no individual or tribe can dictate or interfere in any manner. As per the customary and traditional practices for the Aos to reign for 30 years (for a generation/Putu) has been its inherent rights since time immemorial. Thereupon, whosoever, abide by the norms of Ao custom could be considered whereas if any individual go against the clarion call of the Ao community will be banished as per the Ao customary laws. Therefore, the Aos vehemently condemn Shri T R Zeliang’s statement, Dated 30-01-17 at the highest degree for his willful interference in regard to the Ao custom and and tradition. Further, the Ao Senden impress upon the leaders who rule upon the people should understand the unique culture, custom, tradition and the rights of the different tribes of Nagaland. In the light of the above fact, the Ao Senden opine that if the Chief Minister of Nagaland does not understand the basic tenets of respective tribal’s standpoint then, he is morally not fit to lead the people, which the Ao Senden with clear conscious could able to pronounce.
C Angang Jamir, Acting President
L Tally Lkr, Acting Secretary
