TR Zeliang warned that growing divisions among Nagas could push the state towards lawlessness, stressing unity at Kisama.
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KOHIMA — Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland TR Zeliang has said that Nagas have “too many divisions, both overground and underground”, and “may have reached a point of irreparable damage—and without divine intervention, our state may be plunged into lawlessness and ruled by gun culture.”
He made those remarks while delivering his greetings during an Advent Christmas Devotional Service at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama on Sunday, organised by the Nagaland Legislators Christian Fellowship (NLCF) and the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF).
In the spirit of Christmas, he said that it was time for Nagas to walk towards unity.
“We have too many divisions, too many groups and organisations, both overground and underground. These layers of fragmentation have become one of our biggest stumbling blocks, directly or indirectly,” he said, adding that Nagas may have reached a point of irreparable damage.
He appreciated the role of the NJCF, saying that the forum has the opportunity to encourage unity in every sphere of life for the welfare and progress of the people.
Zeliang reminded the gathering that Christmas teaches that unity is not the same as uniformity.
“Our different tribes, cultures, faiths and communities add richness to our state. Instead of dividing us, these differences should inspire a deeper appreciation of one another,” he said.
Also read: Minister CL John calls for unity, end to divisions in Naga society
The deputy chief minister also recalled the tremendous response to the Healing and Revival Festival in Dimapur, where over one lakh people gathered to attend the event.
“This is a powerful testimony that our people are hungry for God’s mercy and blessings,” he said, expressing hope that the Christmas season would encourage everyone to welcome Christ with a pure and sincere heart.
“Let forgiveness be our gift to one another, and understanding our offering for a better tomorrow,” he added.
Extending festive greetings, he urged people to see one another not as separate groups but as one family bound by shared history, challenges and dreams.
“May this season renew our hope, inspire greater cooperation among all sections of society, and remind us that when we stand united, we can build a future of harmony, progress and prosperity for our state,” he said.
NJCF secretary Moses Murry, in his message, said that Nagas need revival that can bring joy and peace irrespective of differences.
He expressed hope that the celebration would usher in greater unity, joy and peace across Nagaland.
He also spoke about the significance of Christmas, urging people to look beyond feasting, gifts and decorations and understand the deeper purpose of Christ’s birth.
During the programme, special prayer for the Nagas was led by Khontele Seb, treasurer of NJCF; a special Christmas song was presented by Bethesda Higher Secondary School; and scripture was read by Those Kraho, president of the Bible Society of India, Kohima branch.