The unfortunate demise of La Ganesan, the first Governor of Nagaland who died in office, presents the Union Government with the necessity of appointing a new Governor at a particularly sensitive moment. The unique socio-political landscape of Nagaland, compounded by ongoing legal scrutiny of the constitutional powers of the Governor in the Supreme Court, makes this appointment both a challenge and an opportunity for the Centre. The Union Government must consider various factors in making the selection by integrating the prevailing situation in Nagaland with the wider constitutional discourse. The Governor’s office is a constitutional position, vested with executive authority as the representative of the President of India in the state. In Nagaland, the Governor’s powers have historically extended into sensitive domains due to the state’s special status under Article 371A of the Constitution.
The Supreme Court is currently examining the scope and limits of gubernatorial powers. The outcome may redefine the Governor’s role in state politics, especially in conflict-prone or special-status states like Nagaland. Depending on the Supreme Court’s decision, the role and powers of the Governor may be further delimited or clarified. The ongoing hearing reflects concerns about overreach by Governors in opposition-ruled or special-status states. A judicious, statesman like appointee will be vital to assure Nagaland and other Northeastern states that their constitutional autonomy under Article 371A and the federal spirit of the Constitution will be respected.
Nagaland’s security scenario is complex, with ongoing peace negotiations between Naga groups and the Central government. The state government invariably functions under the shadow of the underground groups. The Governor’s “dual role” as both constitutional head and peace interlocutor is unique to Nagaland. In the recent past, a former Governor was at loggerheads with the elected government, which even resulted in an ugly exchange of name calling in the public domain. As such the Governor must possess tact, credibility, and understanding of the regional dynamics to continue this sensitive engagement effectively.
Nagaland’s political landscape is dominated by unique coalition governments sans opposition. The Governor’s impartiality, discretion and oversight are critical in maintaining democratic functioning and ensuring stability in the state especially in times of crisis like blockade of highways, emerging threats in the Disputed Area Belt(DAB) along Assam -Nagaland Border and Oting like incidents. The appointee should have a reputation of neutrality and administrative acumen to foster trust between the Raj Bhavan and the elected government.
Nagaland is home to a mosaic of tribes, each with its own social structures, customs, and aspirations. The Governor’s actions and pronouncements can have outsized impacts on inter-tribal relations. He could play a valuable role in settlement of the ENPO’s demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT), a separate administrative entity, the contours of which have yet to be decided between the Centre and the ENPO. Also, he could advise the State Government in breaking the impasse on the demand of Central Tribes for review of Reservations in Jobs for Backward Tribes and work towards an amicable settlement. He could assuage the Nagas to changes in Free Movement Regime(FMR), erection of Border Fencing along Myanmar Border, enforcement of Inner Line Permit(ILP) and Restricted/Protected Area Permit RAP/PAP and assist in resolution of Inter-Tribal Disputes and gradual lifting of AFSPA from disturbed areas. Where appropriate, the Governor must facilitate dialogue among diverse ethnic groups to uphold harmony and inclusiveness. While the Governor acts as the President’s representative, excessive partisanship towards the union government can erode the legitimacy of the office in the eyes of Nagas and the state government, as such he must assist the State Government in Governance and not merely act as the Agent of the Union Government. A balance must be struck: the Governor should inspire confidence both in New Delhi and in Kohima.
As an interim measure, Mr Ajay Bhalla, Governor of Manipur has been given additional charge of Nagaland. He has a wealth of experience as Union Home Secretary, however the situation in Manipur is still not stabilized and is presently under Presidents Rule, as such he may not have adequate time to spare for Nagaland which requires a full-time Governor. Moreover, it is feared that after a long stint as Union Home Secretary, he may not bring anything new to the table to usher normalcy in Nagaland. It may also be recalled that few years ago, Nagaland was given as additional charge to Mr Jagdish Mukhi Governor of Assam for nearly one and a half years. Such long period of additional charge should be avoided at all costs. The government may look beyond traditional political figures to retired civil servants, military officers with extensive experience in the Northeast, or legal experts. The ideal profile would blend constitutional wisdom, administrative competence, and cultural empathy. Appointing a new Governor for Nagaland at this juncture is not a routine administrative exercise. It is a decision loaded with constitutional, legal, political, and socio-cultural significance. The prevailing situation in Nagaland, the ongoing Naga peace process, the sensitivities around Article 371A, and the Supreme Court’s imminent clarification of gubernatorial powers all make the appointment a touchstone for Centre-State relations.
The Governor must be perceived as fair, empathetic, and invested in the state’s stability, development, and unique identity. The process of selection should be consultative, nuanced, and aimed at reinforcing both constitutional values and public trust. An incumbent with a non-controversial background will facilitate acceptance across political and civil society spectrum. Ultimately, the new Governor’s success will be measured by ability to uphold the constitutional order, safeguard Nagaland’s special status, and foster lasting peace and progress in the state.
Colonel Prakash Bhatt(Retd)
(The Author is an Indian Army Veteran and the views expressed in the attached Article are in his personal capacity)
Tuesday, August 26, 2025