Former Nagaland chief minister and governor, Dr. SC Jamir, expressed serious concern about the multiple authorities controlling the state and their impact on the lives of the Naga public particularly the youth.
He said this while speaking as the chief guest at the 10th Cultural Day of Mount Mary College (MMC) in Chümoukedima, under the theme ‘Reminiscing Heritage’.
Dr. Jamir described Nagaland’s narrative using three words: “majesty, mystery, and misery.” He said Nagaland was still regarded as the Switzerland of the East, with its stunning natural landscapes encompassing mountains, hills, rivers, and forests, which contribute to its majestic allure. However, alongside its natural beauty, Nagaland is also characterized by mystery, attributed to the complex interplay of peace and conflicts within the state. Despite aspirations for peaceful resolutions, internal conflicts persist, contributing to the enigmatic nature of Nagaland’s socio-political landscape.
He pointed out the presence of numerous factions and authorities within Nagaland, citing the existence of “multiple prime ministers, commanders-in-chief, generals, multiple authorities– both constitutional and extra-constitutional”.
“All of that, besides constitutional authority, were sucking the blood of Naga people,” Jamir lamented and likened them to “leeches,” implying that they were feeding off the resources and efforts of the Naga populace, ultimately burdening a single Naga family with the responsibility to feed the mouths of so many groups.
Dr. Jamir remarked that this climate of fear has effectively silenced people, inhibiting them from expressing themselves openly. He described the situation as a “mystery”, where on one hand, there are discussions about peaceful solutions and reconciliation, while on the other hand, conflicts persist within the society, characterized by divisions and subdivisions.
Dr. Jamir lamented that the state has departed from the principle of “unity we stand” and instead embraced the lesson of “divided we fall.” He therefore, posed a question to the youth whether to choose “united we stand” or “divided we fall”?
Dr. Jamir expressed optimism that with improved education, greater enlightenment, and broader perspectives, the youth would ultimately choose unity, embodying the spirit of “united we stand.”
Appreciating the cultural presentations by the students, he said it was indeed a display of oneness of Naga culture and urged all to refrain from talking about tribalism but instead focus on the unity of all the tribes into “Naga Land”.
He remarked that if Nagas can adopt a culture of unity, understanding, and harmony, they would be able to compete with rest of the world. Dr. Jamir lamented that for more than six decades, Nagas have endured severe hardship and misery due to the prevalence of a gun culture. He highlighted that despite being known for their bravery, honesty, and hard work in the past, Nagas have been marred by misery under the shadow of gun culture.
Dr. Jamir pointed out that this culture has instilled fear and silenced the voices of those who seek truth. He added that it was time for the young people to decide whether they would prefer to remain in this “land of the blind” or to uplift the people with the spirit of adventure and progress.
“Be brave, be honest and upright. Only then we shall be able to remove the darkness which has overcast on the society,” Jamir said.
Dr. Jamir also noted that while others were progressing, in Nagaland, both overground and underground leaders were obsessed only about the past. Whatever has happened in 1929 or 1951 and other events were all part of history, Dr Jamir asserted.
He, therefore, called upon the leaders to focus on the present in order to shape and reinvent the future.
While acknowledging the challenges facing the state, Dr. Jamir called for reconciliation and peaceful solutions. He urged unity and courage in the face of internal strife, emphasizing the importance of collective effort to overcome obstacles.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Jamir lamented the impact of decades-long insurgency, cautioning against the allure of negativity. He expressed concern over the pervasive sense of negativity, stating, “We are suffering from negativity. Everything is negativity.” Urging the younger generation to embrace positivity and strive for progress, he emphasized that the youth possess a different perception and vision, which should guide them towards a brighter future.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by managing director MMC, Dr. C Teeya Imsong. The programme was chaired by Viedoane while the president Evangelical Union of MMC, Mharon Kikon led the opening prayer. Highlights of the programme included cultural extravaganza and competitions.