‘Nagaland is in shambles’: Dr Jamir’s clarion call for unity at Tsungremong

Amid calls for unity and reflection on the state’s current challenges, the Kohima Aor Telongjem celebrated the Tsungremong pre-harvest festival at the Amphitheatre, Kisama, on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Padma Bhushan awardee and former Nagaland Governor and chief minister, Dr. S.C. Jamir, described the occasion as “meaningful” and urged the Ao community to remain united. He said the community’s coming together for Tsungremong was a powerful symbol of unity that should be upheld even in trying times.
Observing that Nagaland was passing through a difficult phase, Jamir said the need of the hour was for the Ao Arogo to focus on a solution. He asserted that Nagaland was a land chosen by the Almighty but added that it was now “in shambles”, with growing divisions, jealousy, corruption, and diminishing unity. He pointed to tribalism as a major concern and remarked that while Nagas continue to demand sovereignty, they have become content with district-level ambitions.
On the state of Nagaland’s politics, Jamir said it had become “abnormal” with “too many heads”. In such a scenario, he asserted that the Ao community must not remain silent but seek solutions. He noted that Nagaland’s political history was entering a transitional phase and called for clarity and collective vision.
Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, Metsübo Jamir, spoke on the significance of Tsungremong, recalling that during their forefathers’ time, hard work was necessary for survival, and the festival marked the fruit of that labour.
He expressed concern that many Aos who had settled in Kohima for generations were forgetting their roots, culture, and identity in pursuit of comfort. “No matter what we adopt, we will always remain Aos,” Metsübo reminded the gathering.
Earlier, short speeches were delivered by T. Chubayanger, president of Kohima Ao Telongjem (KAT); Lanutemshi Longkumer, DB of Mokokchung; and Marsanen Imsong, president of Ao Senden.
The programme also featured cultural performances and folk songs by Kohima Ongpangkong Telongjem, Watsu Telen Kohima, Kohima Longjang Senso Telongjem, Kohima Longsa Senso Telongjem, Telok, and Kohima Jangpetkong Senso Telongjem.