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Dimapur, June 5 (EMN): Observing that the Covid-19 pandemic appears to have unearthed aspects of Naga society “that we so often leave unchecked”, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has pushed for a united ‘Naga approach rising above tribal-mentality, district-centric attitude and socio-political affiliations’ to combat the contagion.
“Is Covid-19 resuscitating one’s primordial instincts inward against what needs to be done now? Are we unconsciously committing mayhem by underscoring religious norms and social bonds by preying on someone at the most vulnerable moment?” the FNR wondered in a statement issued on Friday.
It reminded that in spite of human limitations and failures, ‘in such a moment as this, we are all called to stand together for victory’.
“Despite our differing relative facts and preconceptions, we must guard against the pandemic that may tempt us to run away from the urgency of naming and winning the battle against Covid-19. Government agencies alone remain limited because of the range and height at which the Covid-19 travels. Collective consciousness and action becomes one of the most important factors now,” read the statement.
The FNR advocated a comprehensive Naga response to the pandemic ‘by improving inter-tribe relations and unity in purpose’.
The forum maintained that it views Nagaland government’s admission to lapses, mismanagement and limitations in its Covid-19 response as a positive step.
“The government must take immediate corrective measures and steps to reduce the gap between public expectations and government actions on the ground,” it reminded.
The forum urged the ‘government, political parties, tribes and people’ for a responsible humane approach with gratitude, respect, dignity and understanding.
At the same time, the FNR stated, it stands in solidarity with the public and ‘share its concern of the need for a more effective, coherent and better managed response’.
“As citizens, the public needs to hold the government accountable and provide constructive suggestions without incapacitating its ability to respond during this medical emergency,” it added.
Symbolic act of commitment
Also, the forum sounded a clarion call for ‘symbolic action’ on June 10 at 7 pm. “We encourage individuals and families to sing, mediate and pray in your homes on Wednesday, June 10, at 7 pm. A well-known chorus, ‘In the name of Jesus, we have the victory’ can be sung together.
“We invite everyone to flash their mobile phones or light a candle as a symbolic act of commitment to the light within us to shine in the midst of the challenges. Pray for the frontline workers: medical personnel, administrative officials, police personnel, volunteers, returnees in quarantine centres and Covid-19 patients that are in hospitals,” it urged.