Nagaland: DBs urged to deliver judgments without fear

Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, described the Dobashis (DBs) as a respected institution vested with both executive and judicial authority, and urged them to deliver judgments without fear or favour. He called upon the DBs to remain neutral from village and tribal politics, maintain discipline and integrity, and discharge their responsibilities sincerely as peacemakers and representatives of the administration.
According to DIPR report, B. Henok Buchem was speaking at the one-day orientation programme for Dobashis of Kohima district held on February 3 at the DC’s Conference Hall, Kohima, aimed at strengthening their understanding of roles in administration, customary justice and governance.
Buchem also highlighted the historical significance of the Dobashi institution in Naga society. Referring to the formation of the Naga Club in 1918, he noted that Dobashis played a pivotal role in the early Naga political movement, pointing out that nine of the signatories to the memorandum submitted to the Simon Commission were Dobashis.
Speaking on behalf of the Dobashis, Notho, DB-I, thanked the district administration for organising the orientation programme.
He said the Dobashis are functioning in a period of transition and uncertainty due to changing social and administrative contexts, and expressed hope that the orientation would provide clarity and guidance. He reaffirmed their commitment to uphold Naga customary law, preserve Naga culture and identity, and contribute towards maintaining law and order.
SDO (C) Sadar, James Renbi Kikon, delivered a session on the origin of the Dobashi institution, tracing its evolution during the British period. He explained their role as “men of two languages” who served as interpreters and cultural mediators between colonial administrators and Naga communities, facilitating administration, governance and judicial processes.
Senior Legal Assistant, DC Office Kohima, Ketoulhoutuo U. Rame, spoke on the Village Council Act, 1978 and the Bengal Frontier Regulation Act, 1873. She explained that the Village Council Act provides statutory recognition to village councils and empowers them to administer village affairs and resolve disputes based on customary practices, while the Bengal Frontier Regulation Act continues to safeguard Naga customary law and traditional institutions.
EAC Kohima, Imtiyenla K., spoke on the present role of Dobashis in district administration, noting that the institution originated in 1842 during the British era and later evolved into key functionaries blending traditional authority with administrative roles. She highlighted their responsibilities in assisting administrative officers in daily operations, dispute mediation, inspections, surveys, law and order duties, and supporting police and magistrates.
EAC (Sadar), Dr. Riku, spoke on the Rules for the Administration of Justice and Police in Nagaland, emphasising the role of Dobashis in customary judiciary, DB Courts, recording of statements, and ensuring that legal proceedings are properly understood by all parties.
The programme highlighted the challenges faced by Dobashis in balancing tradition with modern governance and reaffirmed their continued importance as custodians of local customs, traditions and dialects, and as vital links between customary practices and the modern administrative system.