Chenmoho: From a Village on the Margins to Torchbearer of the FNT Movement

Situated within the Chen Circle of Mon District at approximately 26.1961° N latitude and 95.0547° E longitude, Nagaland, lies the village of Chenmoho, an enclave distinguished by its awe-inspiring mountainous terrain and serene landscapes. Against this picturesque setting, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) articulated the momentous “Chenmoho Resolution,” a pivotal document underscoring their steadfast commitment to the quest for recognition and constitutional justice. The formulation of this resolution, set against the tranquil backdrop of the setting sun, reverberates through the Chen Circle, epitomising a collective journey of the Eastern Nagas towards socio-economic-political empowerment and transformative change. Chenmoho, with its historical legacy, stands as a luminous beacon of hope amidst adversity, symbolising an indomitable spirit that fosters unity, galvanised aspirations, and kindles a sense of purpose and solidarity among the Eastern Nagas. The village’s cultural significance in the State of Nagaland is further amplified by the “Chenmoho Resolution”, which immortalises it in the modern history of India. Serving as a critical instrument in the broader struggle for constitutional self-determination, equity, and the glorious quest for socio-economic-political justice, it echoes the Eastern Nagas’ enduring resilience and their pursuit of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity within the regional polity through the Frontier Nagaland Territory. This profound commitment was further solidified when the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) unanimously resolved “not to participate in any Central and State election” due to the delay in settling the demand for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territory. This resolution was reached during a joint consultative meeting of the ENPO, federating tribal bodies, frontal organisations, talk team, and senior leaders on February 23, 2024, at Chenmoho Village, Mon District. The unity and resolve displayed at this meeting underscore the Eastern Naga community’s determination to achieve their rightful place within the Indian Union, and their actions serve as a clarion call for justice and recognition. This collective stance highlights the urgency for the government to address their demands and ensure their inclusion in the national narrative.

My deep understanding of the Chen Circle is rooted in personal experience, having navigated the rugged landscapes of this border region between India and Myanmar on foot. This immersive experience has granted me an intimate understanding of the endemic struggles and vulnerabilities confronting its populace, deeply etching these realities into my consciousness. Within this harsh and unforgiving landscape, Chenmoho emerges as a potent emblem of resilience, epitomising the indomitable spirit of the entire Eastern Naga community. The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation’s (ENPO) iron commitment to the Chenmoho Resolution exemplifies their strategic resolve to systematically address the multifaceted adversities faced by Eastern Naga people aspiring to catalyse a transformative trajectory towards an all inclusive enlightened future through the glorious rise of promised land- “The Frontier Nagaland Territory”. The visual splendour of the sun casting its golden radiance upon Chenmoho village encapsulates a poignant sense of hope, reinforcing my conviction that through collective unity, honesty and relentless perseverance, the Eastern Nagas will actualise their collective aspirations, heralding an era marked by constitutional empowerment, constitutional autonomy, and constitutional self-determination.

The Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) movement has reached a pivotal juncture with the Chenmoho Resolution, a momentous development in the struggle for “Constitutional Justice” spearheaded by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO). This resolution signifies a critical consolidation of regional aspirations and institutional advocacy within the framework of supreme law of the land. However, the political reluctance exhibited by the State Government which consequently resulted in political inertia, has galvanised the Eastern Nagaland populace, reinforcing their resolve through a series of definitive resolutions. Their historic commitment to abstain from Central and State elections embodies a profound expression of disenchantment and a strategic manoeuvre to underscore their demands for constitutional self-determination and self-governance through the creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory in the state of Nagaland. This collective action underscores a critical juncture in the movement, illustrating the intersection of local agency and broader institutional frameworks in the ongoing quest for “Constitutional Justice” through the rise of ‘Frontier Nagaland Territory’.

The roots of this movement lie deep in the persistent struggles faced by the indigenous populace of Eastern Nagaland, grappling with systemic marginalisation and underdevelopment. ENPO, as a unified front for these marginalised communities, has tirelessly campaigned for the establishment of a separate Frontier Nagaland Territory. Such a legal-constitutional reconfiguration is deemed vital for addressing the intricate web of socio-economic, political, and cultural challenges unique to the region. By advocating for legal and constitutional recognition through the systematic construction of “Frontier Nagaland Territory” in the state of Nagaland, ENPO aims to rectify historical injustices and ensure equitable representation for the disenfranchised. Ultimately, the movement endeavours to carve out a space where the voices and aspirations of Eastern Nagaland’s indigenous populations are not only heard but also acted upon, fostering a more inclusive and just society.

In the face of prolonged governmental inertia regarding the Frontier Nagaland Territory issue, the inhabitants of Eastern Nagaland, represented by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO), convened a momentous assembly in Chenmoho village on February 23, 2024. This gathering marked a watershed moment, resulting in a resolute decision to abstain from all central and state electoral processes until their demands were met. This resolution, reiterated emphatically on subsequent occasions, epitomises the strong determination of the Eastern Naga community. On March 19, 2024, at the administrative headquarters of Tuensang, and later on April 11, 2024, during a significant public gathering in Tuensang, the Chenmoho resolution was reaffirmed with solid conviction. This steadfast commitment not only underscores the collective will but also represents an exceptional demonstration of political solidarity among Eastern Nagaland’s populace, symbolising their unyielding quest for socio-economic-political-cultural empowerment through constitutional mechanism in the face of state governmental indifference and neglect.

The ENPO’s public statements, disseminated across various media platforms, unequivocally highlight the government’s failure to fulfil its promised obligation in addressing the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) matter prior to the implementation of the Lok Sabha electoral code of conduct. This governmental lapse is deeply felt by the Eastern Nagas, who perceive it as a grave disregard for their legitimate concerns and inherent rights. The Chenmoho Resolution, therefore, transcends mere electoral abstention; it emerges as a potent act of defiance and a firm demand for restoration of constitutional rights of Eastern Nagas through Frontier Nagaland Territory. The ENPO’s firm commitment to uphold this resolution with utmost sincerity, determination and courage epitomises their resolute dedication to their cause. This steadfastness not only demonstrates their acute political consciousness but also signifies a broader assertion of their socio-political agency within the context of regional autonomy and constitutional self-determination. Their stance underscores the seriousness of their grievances and their determination to pursue justice through legal, constitutional, peaceful, yet resolute means.

The decision to abstain from the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections carries profound implications within the realm of political theory and practice. It constitutes a historic act of resistance by the Eastern Nagaland populace against the systemic injustices they endure in their own state of Nagaland. This intentional non-participation serves as a potent form of political dissent, effectively spotlighting their longstanding grievances and unaddressed demands. It stands as a bold affirmation of their collective identity and rights, urging a recalibration of the political dialogue to incorporate their marginalised perspectives and address their specific concerns. This defiance not only underscores their agency but also etches their historic struggle into India’s political narrative. This calculated withdrawal from the electoral process by Eastern Nagas in their individual as well as collective capacity out of their own ‘Free Will’ embodies a sophisticated, legal, and constitutional means of democratic expression, challenging entrenched power dynamics and compelling state authorities to acknowledge and rectify the systemic inequities faced by the Eastern Nagas. It serves as a reminder that democracy’s vitality lies in its responsiveness to all citizens, especially those historically marginalised, and underscores the imperative of inclusive governance in a pluralistic society.

Moreover, Lok Sabha election was in one way a “referendum” on Frontier Nagaland Territory. Eastern Naga people knew that by not voting in the election, they were voting for “Frontier Nagaland Territory”. In this context, “Zero percent” voting in the Lok Sabha election can be interpreted as “Hundred percent” voting in favour of Frontier Nagaland Territory. This unprecedented level of electoral abstention underscores Eastern Naga People’s dissatisfaction with the State Government’s neglect. A democratic government has to go by democratic will. And the democratic will has been clearly and unequivocally expressed in Lok Sabha elections in the “Eastern Nagaland”.   

At its core, the Chenmoho Resolution resonates with the foundational principles of political philosophy, encapsulating the intricate dynamics of power, agency, and collective mobilisation. Drawing upon Rousseau’s seminal notion of the social contract, wherein individuals willingly surrender certain freedoms to secure collective benefits, and Rawls’ conception of justice as fairness, which emphasises the equal distribution of liberties and opportunities within society, the Eastern Nagas’ deliberate abstention from electoral processes emerges as a profound assertion of their inherent autonomy and entitlements as guaranteed by the Constitution of India. This transcendence of mere electoral politics signifies a potent reaffirmation of political sovereignty, wherein the Eastern Nagas assert their rightful place as active agents in shaping their collective destiny in the State of Nagaland within the framework of the Constitution of India. By refraining from participation, they signal a rejection of imposed narratives and a reclaiming of their narrative, one that articulates a distinct political identity in the state of Nagaland and asserts their rightful constitutional place within the intricate fabric of the Indian Union. This act, rooted in principles of constitutional self-determination and justice, serves not only as a means of political expression but as a transformative catalyst, challenging prevailing power structures and advocating for a more equitable and inclusive polity.

Moreover, the Chenmoho Resolution serves as a potent illustration of the dialectical interplay between power and resistance, a concept deeply ingrained in the annals of political theory. Drawing inspiration from the insights of prominent political theorists, it illuminates the intricate dynamics inherent in struggles for ‘Justice’ & ‘Equity’. The Eastern Nagas’ resolute abstention embodies a profound form of counter-hegemonic resistance, meticulously crafted to dismantle the entrenched structures of domination and marginalisation perpetuated by fractured and failed policies of the state government. By abstaining from electoral participation, our Eastern Nagas not only reject the imposed narratives of systematic subjugation but also assert their agency in shaping the trajectory of their collective destiny. In this transformative praxis, the Chenmoho resolution transcends mere symbolic protest; it becomes a potent tool for emancipation, challenging the hegemonic discourse and laying the groundwork for the empowerment of oppressed Eastern Nagas. Through their concerted action, the Eastern Nagas reclaim their voice and stake their rightful claim to constitutional autonomy, signalling a paradigm shift in the struggle for justice and equality within the broader framework of Indian polity.

The role of the ENPO President, Shri Tsapikiu Sangtam, has been instrumental in this movement. His astute leadership and the clarity of his strategic vision have galvanised the people of Eastern Nagaland into a cohesive and determined force. Through his adept navigation of complex socio-political landscapes and his ability to articulate a compelling narrative, Shri. Sangtam has managed to foster a profound sense of solidarity and purpose among the populace. The resolve and unity demonstrated under his stewardship have echoed like the resonant roar of a lion, creating ripples of influence that extend well beyond regional confines, penetrating national consciousness. His name, now immortalised in the annals of the Eastern Naga people’s history, epitomises their indomitable strength and resilience, serving as a beacon of hope and a testament to their enduring, fiery spirit. Through his charismatic leadership and resolute commitment, Shri. Sangtam has effectively transformed the political landscape, ensuring that the voice of Eastern Nagaland is not only heard but commands respect and action on broader platforms- not only in the State of Nagaland but in every nook and corner of India.

The ENPO’s struggle and the subsequent Chenmoho Resolution illuminate pivotal concerns regarding governance, representation, and regional autonomy within the Indian polity. This demand for the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) is fundamentally anchored in a quest for equitable development and constitutional self-determination, reflecting a profound desire to rectify long-standing systemic imbalances. The chronic neglect and pervasive underdevelopment of the Eastern Naga regions have engendered a deep-seated sense of alienation and disenchantment among its populace. Establishing the “Frontier Nagaland Territory” is posited as a strategic response to these issues, envisaged as a mechanism to facilitate a governance framework that is acutely attuned to the distinctive socio-cultural-political and economic exigencies of these marginalised communities. This proposal advocates for a devolution of administrative powers, aiming to engender a more inclusive and participatory political environment, thereby fostering sustainable development, constructive economic growth, social justice and enhancing the overall socio-political cohesion of the Eastern Naga people into the broader fabric of the State of Nagaland.

The persistent failure of the state government to address the demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory signals a distressing apathy within the political echelons. Despite its paramount importance, this critical issue has never been accorded the attention it deserves in the deliberative chambers of the Nagaland State Assembly. Furthermore, the absence of any formal invitation from the Cabinet of the State Government for dialogue with the ENPO underscores a profound disconnect between governance and the grassroots realities of Eastern Nagaland. This disregard not only exposes the government’s detachment but also fuels the determination of the Eastern Naga People. Despite facing formidable challenges and enduring governmental neglect, they remain resolute in their quest to assert their collective legal and constitutional rights within the political arena. This firm resolve stands evident to their steadfast commitment to effecting meaningful change and constructive transformation, even in the face of entrenched indifference and obstacles.

India’s current political landscape is at a critical juncture, marked by intricate complexities. With the imminent Lok Sabha elections being conducted nationwide and the Urban Local Body elections coming up in the State of Nagaland, the nation’s democratic framework faces profound scrutiny. The Eastern Nagas’ decision in their individual as well as collective capacity  to abstain from these electoral proceedings highlights deep-seated issues of marginalisation and disenfranchisement. In this context, the Chenmoho Resolution transcends its localised origins to epitomise a broader national imperative demanding urgent redress. Its ramifications extend beyond regional confines, resonating with the foundational principles of federalism and democratic inclusivity. The resolution underscores the need for concerted efforts towards reconciliation and systemic reform, aiming to address the socio-political and economic disparities faced by the Eastern Nagas. It calls for a re-evaluation of governance structures and the implementation of policies that genuinely reflect the diverse voices within the Indian polity, ensuring a more equitable and just society. This moment demands an urgent and sincere commitment to dialogue and action, fostering a political environment where every individual and community’s aspirations are acknowledged, respected and addressed.

The imperative facing the Government of India, marks a critical juncture in political governance. The urgent task at hand necessitates the swift and efficient establishment of the Frontier Nagaland Territory to address the long-standing grievances and suffering of the Eastern Naga people. The State Government of Nagaland must recognise the gravity of the situation and create a favourable environment for the smooth transition demanded by the Eastern Naga people for the Frontier Nagaland Territory. The Nagaland Government should seize this opportunity to rectify past and ongoing mistakes, thereby addressing regional disparities and fostering a more inclusive and equitable political environment across the state. This proactive approach will not only enhance governance effectiveness but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for all citizens. It underscores the imperative for collaborative efforts between the central and state governments to achieve meaningful progress and inclusive growth, thereby fulfilling the aspirations of all segments of society; securing constitutional values of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity

In summary, the Chenmoho Resolution epitomises a pivotal juncture in the pursuit of the Frontier Nagaland Territory, emblematic of the Eastern Naga Peoples’ Organization’s (ENPO) firm dedication and the Eastern Naga people’s cohesive solidarity, emblematic of their yearning for constitutional justice, acknowledgment, decentralised governance and self-governance.

Led by Shri Tsapikiu Sangtam, Frontier Nagaland Territory movement has not only etched the Eastern Naga community into India’s historical narrative but also posed a significant challenge to the foundational principles of Indian democracy. The Chenmoho resolution, along with its subsequent reaffirmations, serves as a poignant call for urgent and substantive interventions, highlighting the nation’s perpetual quest for fairness and rectitude amidst its diverse societal fabric. This historic stance epitomises the Eastern Naga people’s unconditional dedication to their rights and constitutional autonomy, mirroring a broader struggle for justice in the face of historical neglect and marginalisation.

As the nation progresses, it becomes imperative to heed the voices of marginalised Eastern Nagas, acknowledging their grievances and striving towards an inclusive and just society for all. The responsibility lies with the state government of Nagaland to engage in meaningful, constructive, on-the-table dialogue directly with the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), the sole negotiating body with the Ministry of Home Affairs concerning Frontier Nagaland. Concrete steps, in collaboration with the Central Government, must be taken to address the legitimate concerns of the Eastern Naga people. This necessitates the earnest establishment of the “Frontier Nagaland Territory,” a pivotal initiative aimed at fostering justice, unity, and social cohesion. By proactively addressing historical grievances and ensuring equitable representation, the government can pave the way for a harmonious and prosperous future where every citizen feels valued and empowered. This collaborative effort between the state and central governments underscores a commitment to democratic principles and the promotion of genuine societal progress. It is through such concerted actions that the nation can truly embody the ideals of equality, justice, and unity, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all its citizens.

Dr. Aniruddha Babar,

Senior Faculty, Dept of Political Science,

Tetso College, Nagaland.

Director, Project Constitutional Justice