Frontier Nagaland Territory Awaits: A Defining Opportunity for Nagaland’s Political Leadership

“The state must be a resource for justice, not a barrier to it. The creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory is not just a unique Constitutional experiment-it is about ensuring that the marginalised communities of Eastern Nagaland have access to the opportunities and support they need to thrive. Supporting Frontier Nagaland means supporting equity, dignity, and the future of both an inclusive state of Nagaland and the diverse, vibrant, thriving, progressive, and resilient nation of Bharat.”

The issue of the “Frontier Nagaland” has been a longstanding concern for the Eastern Naga people, who have faced decades of marginalisation and neglect. The region has often been left out of developmental policies, leading to deep socio-economic disparities compared to other parts of Nagaland. Their growing demand for a separate Frontier Nagaland Territory within the state of Nagaland reflects a deep-seated need for constitutional autonomy, recognition, and fair representation. The neglect has led to a persistent sense of alienation and frustration among the Eastern Nagas, fueling their desire for self-governance. This movement has reached a critical point, and it is crucial that the Nagaland government takes immediate action by officially submitting its comments, views, and suggestions to the Government of India in the larger interest of the public. Failure to act now could further deepen the divide and exacerbate existing tensions.

The creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory is not merely about addressing regional disparities; it is a pivotal step toward rectifying historical injustices and empowering the Eastern Nagas to shape their future. The Eastern Naga region’s constitutional rights have been undermined by insufficient political representation and a lack of sufficient constitutional autonomy. This has obstructed the region’s efforts to address its socio-economic challenges effectively and to ensure fair access to opportunities and resources, exacerbating existing disparities and compromising its fundamental rights. A new constitutional experiment-the “Frontier Nagaland Territory” would spur economic development, providing much-needed infrastructure and resources to the region without being a burden on Kohima or New Delhi. Moreover, it would enable better governance, reducing the influence of distant policymakers that often overlook local needs. Additionally, it would ensure more direct participation of the Eastern Nagas in decision-making processes, safeguarding their constitutional rights. This newfound constitutional autonomy would allow the Eastern Nagas to pursue policies tailored to their unique socio-economic realities.

The Eastern Nagas, who inhabit the districts of Tuensang, Mon, Longleng, Kiphire, Noklak, and Shamator, have long felt alienated from Nagaland’s political and economic life. These areas, despite their vast potential, remain underdeveloped due to consistent neglect by successive state governments. Despite the region’s strategic importance, it has lagged behind in terms of basic infrastructure, education, healthcare, and overall development. This neglect has perpetuated a cycle of poverty and lack of development, with little hope for improvement under the current state structure. The frustration caused by fractured governance, lack of development, deep-rooted corruption, and Kohima-centric politics and a deep rooted sense of tribalism in the Nagaland politics has ultimately fueled the demand for Frontier Nagaland, well-rooted in a legitimate desire for self-governance that can better address the unique needs of the region through constitutional mechanisms. The creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory would not only address these concerns but also restore a sense of dignity and empowerment to the people.

Understanding the demand for Frontier Nagaland requires a comprehensive look at the economic disparities at play. The region is rich in natural resources, yet these have remained largely untapped due to the lack of infrastructure, investment and necessary attention from the state government. The Eastern Naga region has consistently received less state investment and policy attention compared to other parts of Nagaland. This systemic neglect has stunted the region’s economic growth, leaving it reliant on subsistence agriculture, low-paying jobs as well as other sundry occupations. This neglect is evident in the poor condition of roads, lack of healthcare facilities, inadequate educational institutions, and limited access to basic amenities like clean-potable water, electricity and sanitation. The establishment of Frontier Nagaland Territory could serve as a catalyst for targeted investments, leading to sustainable development and improved living standards. By seriously considering the demand for Frontier Nagaland, the government would acknowledge the region’s economic plight and take a critical step toward rectifying these long-standing inequalities.

The demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory is not just a call for administrative separation but a cry for socioeconomic justice. The people of Eastern Nagaland have long been denied equal access to opportunities, resources, and representation. The Nagaland government has an opportunity to address these grievances by submitting its views, perspectives and vision to the Government of India, demonstrating its commitment to equitable development through its support to the ‘voice of the people’ for Frontier Nagaland Territory. This would signal a commitment to bridging the development gap between Eastern Nagaland and the rest of the state. Failing to do so would perpetuate existing inequalities and further alienate the Eastern Naga community which will never be acceptable in free and Independent India.

The creation of Frontier Nagaland also presents an opportunity for cultural preservation and the promotion of the unique heritage of the Eastern Naga tribes. The rich cultural diversity of the Eastern Nagas, including their languages, traditions, and customs, has been underrepresented in the broader Nagaland identity. Establishing Frontier Nagaland Territory would provide the necessary autonomy to safeguard and revitalise these indigenous cultural treasures, fostering greater unity and pride among the Eastern Naga tribes. This would also allow for the preservation and promotion of traditional knowledge systems that are at risk of being lost due to lack of robust policy measures. By prioritising cultural preservation, the new territory would ensure that the Eastern Naga identity is not only maintained but honoured and celebrated. The region’s cultural revival through locally centered policy initiatives would also attract tourism, further boosting the local economy and creating new opportunities for the youth.

The economic implications of creating Frontier Nagaland Territory hold significant potential for the entire nation. The region’s untapped natural resources, including minerals and fertile land, could be harnessed to drive economic growth of the region. With the right vision and leadership, Frontier Nagaland could become a hub for economic activities such as agriculture, horticulture, international education, tourism & hospitality, industrial manufacturing and cross-border trade with Myanmar. These sectors have the potential to transform the region’s economy, providing employment and improving livelihoods. Prioritising this issue could unlock the region’s economic potential, leading to skill development, job creation, improved infrastructure, and enhanced livelihoods for the people of Eastern Nagaland. Such economic progress would also contribute to the overall development of Nagaland, reducing regional disparities and fostering greater state unity.

The Government of Nagaland supporting the creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory would super-strengthen our nation’s position in the region, enabling local leadership to take ultra-bold steps to boost cross-border trade & commerce through the complete activation of the long dead International Trading Centers at Dan (Noklak), Mimi (Kiphire) and Longwa (Mon), and foster socio-economic stability along neglected border areas. The strategic location of Eastern Nagaland, bordering Myanmar, positions it as a crucial player in India’s Act East policy. The establishment of Frontier Nagaland Territory could stimulate investment in key sectors, driving sustainable economic growth. The increased focus on the region not only contributes to constructive development but also assures social justice for deprived Eastern Naga communities in the neglected border areas where the light of constitutional governance never reaches from the center of power & politics in Nagaland. By empowering the Eastern Naga communities through constructive- on the ground support to the creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory, the state government would ensure that these historically marginalised Eastern Naga people are active participants in the region’s development. This would also send a strong message of inclusivity and fairness, reinforcing the integrity of the Indian Union.

The significance of Eastern Nagaland has long been underappreciated by policymakers in Kohima, leading to challenges stemming from fractured governance and the divisive effects of tribalism in Nagaland’s politics. The centralised nature of governance in Nagaland has often sidelined the needs and aspirations of the Eastern Nagas. By supporting the creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory, the Government of Nagaland has a valuable opportunity to address these past oversights. This move would resolve historical grievances and foster more equitable governance, development, and social justice. It would also pave the way for a more balanced distribution of resources and opportunities across the state. In doing so, the Nagaland government would not only rectify past mistakes but also lay the foundation for a more unified and prosperous future.

The creation of Frontier Nagaland Territory offers a constructive solution to the deep-rooted socio-economic challenges faced by the Eastern Naga people. The establishment of a separate territory would allow for tailored policies that directly address the region’s unique challenges which remained unaddressed for the past six decades. This initiative seeks to empower the region through self-governance, aligning with the community’s cultural heritage and distinct needs. It would also provide a platform for the Eastern Nagas to voice their concerns and aspirations on a larger stage. Establishing the Frontier Nagaland Territory would ensure that governance is more directly responsive to local needs, prioritising the welfare of the people and addressing long-standing grievances. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other regions in India facing similar issues of marginalisation and undevelopment.

Now, as we all can see, the ball is in the court of the State Government of Nagaland, and the entire population of Eastern Nagaland is closely watching the developments as they unfold. The momentum for Frontier Nagaland has been built over years of struggle, sacrifices and advocacy, and the people are eagerly awaiting the next steps. The local population and Eastern Naga intellectuals are fully aware of the status of their demand and their successful journey so far under the banner of ENPO. The grassroots support for this movement underscores the widespread desire for change and the urgency of the situation.

The previous ENPO leadership team with the “Talk Team” successfully advanced the cause of the Frontier Nagaland Territory through successful rounds of talks with MHA to the “Point of No Return”, marking a historic milestone in the movement. Moreover, they managed to spread awareness across every corner of the nation, bringing national attention to the struggles of the forgotten citizens of India living in the remotest mountains and deep jungles of Eastern Nagaland. This achievement has ignited a renewed sense of hope, raw courage and determination among the region’s people.

As the movement enters a critical phase, building trust between the state government and the people will be crucial, determining the success of the initiatives undertaken. The new ENPO leadership must recognise that they are representing a movement for fairness and progress that resonates deeply with the people. This responsibility requires a strong commitment to inclusive leadership, a clear vision for the future, and a strategic approach to negotiating for Frontier Nagaland Territory. Economic development, robust infrastructure, financial autonomy (ensuring that the proposed Frontier Nagaland Territory has control over its resources, funds and revenues), self-governance, and social equity are at the forefront of the Eastern Naga people’s concerns, and these areas must be prioritised. Additionally, fostering open communication channels and ensuring voices of Eastern Naga people and the echoes of their tireless struggles are heard and considered in the decision-making process will be essential. As the current ENPO leaders move forward, maintaining unity, focus, transparency and a balanced approach that combines visionary goals with pragmatic strategies will be key to achieving lasting success.

The eyes of the nation, and indeed the world, are on Nagaland as this pivotal moment unfolds. The outcome of this struggle will be closely watched by other marginalised communities in India and beyond. The success or failure of this endeavour will not only impact the lives of the people in Eastern Nagaland but will also set a precedent for how regional aspirations are managed in a diverse and complex country like India.

This is a moment of truth for the Nagaland government, one that will be remembered for how it handles this critical issue. The state government should no longer delay commenting on the draft memorandum of settlement, which it has held in its custody since December 2023. It should take on the role of a facilitator, actively supporting the voices of the Eastern Naga people echoing through ENPO—the sole negotiating body-legally recognised negotiating entity for the Frontier Nagaland Territory having a public mandate and the Government of India in its creation. The invisible people, marginalised on the periphery of the Indo-Myanmar border, are eagerly awaiting the sunrise. Do not deprive them of the light they deserve.

In the grand scheme of history, there comes a moment when a choice must be made-a choice between continuing as before or daring to take the bold steps necessary to build a just and equitable future. This is a defining moment for the Nagaland government, one that will determine its legacy in the annals of history. For the State Government of Nagaland, that moment is now. It must choose whether to be remembered as a government that stood for justice and progress or one that allowed an opportunity for meaningful change to slip away. Let the Nagaland government be remembered as a champion of progress and justice, a government that seized the opportunity to make history by standing with the Eastern Nagas at this pivotal time. The time for action is now.

The future of Frontier Nagaland Territory, and the promise it holds for the people of Eastern Nagaland, hangs in the balance. It is a future worth fighting for, and it is a future that can be realised if the Nagaland government has the courage to act-hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder with the people of Eastern Nagaland-the men, women and the children-scorned and covered with scars- still strove with their last ounce of courage- to dream the impossible dream and reach the unreachable star- to build the Frontier Nagaland….

The whole India is watching.

The Truth Shall Prevail.

Let Us Not Fail, History Will Never Forgive Us.

 Dr. Aniruddha Babar

Tetso College, Nagaland