8 tribal hohos ask Nagaland govt. to consult it on Frontier Naga Territory, say no to UCC

DIMAPUR— Amid reports of the proposed Frontier Naga Territory (FNT) for the eastern districts inching towards the final stage, eight tribal hohos of Nagaland have urged the government of Nagaland to include and consult them in the decision-making process or agreement in order “to prevent any potential unwelcome situations from arising (out of the deal).

In a press statement issued after a consultative meeting held at the Angami Public Organisation (APO) Hall in Kohima, on Wednesday, the tribal hohos said the house deliberated on various issues including the demand for a separate entity by the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO).

“It is essential that the government of Nagaland actively seeks the input and consent of the tribal hohos to maintain harmony and avoid any conflicts. The tribal hohos of Nagaland strongly reach out to all Naga groups to refrain from rectifying or amending Article 371A, which provides special provisions for Nagaland. The 8 tribal hohos of Nagaland shall strongly oppose any move to rectify or amend Article 371A,” read the statement undersigned by APO President Razouvotuo Chatsu and Sümi Hoho General Secretary Dr. Vihuto Asumi.

On the Nagaland Municipal Act (NMA) 2001 in the state, the tribal bodies reaffirmed its support to state government’s resolution to repeal it.

With regard to Uniform Civil Code (UCC), it said the law, if enacted, will have negative consequences on the tribal people and other minority communities in India.

‘Nagaland has well-established customary laws, religious practices, and social traditions specific to the state. Imposing the UCC would directly violate the special status accorded to the people of the state and undermine the principle of unity in diversity enshrined in the Indian Constitution,’ it said, adding that it will also “jeopardize religious freedom and cultural rights guaranteed to every Indian citizen”.

“The Nagas have their distinct religious beliefs and social practices, making unfamiliarity with many mainland traditions evident. Any attempt to impose laws against the will of the people would be undemocratic and unacceptable. Hence, the 8 tribal hohos of Nagaland vehemently oppose the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in Nagaland,” it stated.

The consultative meeting attended by Ao Senden, Angami Public Organisation, Chakhesang Public Organisation, Lotha Hoho, Pochury Hoho, Sümi Hoho and Nagaland Zeliang People’s Organisation. It was attended Central Nagaland Tribes Council, Tenyimia Union Nagaland and Tenyimia People’s Organisation, said the update.