The United Naga Council (UNC) organised a joint review meeting under the aegis of the Naga Hoho at Senapati on Aug. 23 to assess the progress of the on-going Indo-Naga peace talk, after which a seven-point declaration was made. And one of them cautioned that “any Naga elected representative, political leader, political party, un-mandated or unauthorized Naga individual or group not to attend or participate in any assembly or meeting that would sabotage the ‘Indo-Naga’ peace process.” It also said in another clause that “anyone defying the Naga political principle and its position would be treated as anti national and their entry shall be banned in Naga territory.” This declaration has not gone down well with the Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC), leading to a statement from the organisation questioning the authority and jurisdiction of the Naga Hoho and UNC besides seeking clarification of some terms used in it. NTC has argued that the warning to Nagas as a whole is questionable as the UNC, which is the apex body of the Nagas in Manipur, has no authority over their counterparts living in other states and that Naga Hoho is toothless with the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) and Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) opting out of the body.
Those who follow the development may have the impression that there is huge disagreement between UNC and NTC. It could be right, it could be wrong - perspective. But what many will not see during such an argument and exchange of words is the positive side and the possible good outcome it could bring. Sometimes, things are made out to be more serious than what it actually is, especially when it goes to the media. NTC has described that “one declaration” as “intimidation and arrogance,” and yes it sounds authoritative. It should have been avoided especially at a time when we need to unite and fight for a common cause rather than alienating those who have a different opinion. The need of the hour for Nagas is to bring everyone – the good, the bad, and the ugly – on board and speak in one voice for an early solution to the much-delayed Naga political issue. Every society has black sheep but the bigger cause shouldn’t be destroyed in the process of trying to bring them back into the fold. Having said that, the controversial declaration didn’t mention if it is for all Nagas, thus giving room for “quoting out of context.” So, questioning the jurisdiction of UNC is somewhat extreme and could have been avoided.
Naga Hoho is toothless to a large extent today. Who made it so? No outside force is needed to break our own teeth because we can do it ourselves. In fact, most of the Naga apex bodies are toothless because leaders don’t believe in genuine dialogue to solve differences. But we are surely stronger together than apart. And all these apex bodies work for the welfare of the Nagas in one way or the other, not only in their own spheres but also beyond. If they work together even if they can’t merge as one, they can still be a force to reckon with in transforming the Naga society. It’s better to clarify “that one declaration” through brotherly talks and celebrate the other six together.
