Tribalism, narrow parochialism destroying unity of Naga family, says former Nagaland CM Dr. SC Jamir

Our Reporter
Dimapur, Sep. 30 (EMN): Nagas are obsessed with politics as if it is the only means to develop a human society, and in the bargain totally neglected other important elements required for the welfare of the people, lamented former Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. SC Jamir.

He was speaking at the 37th Freshers’ Day of Public College of Commerce (PCC) on the theme “Vibrant Youth” at IMC Hall, Dimapur, on Friday.

Jamir told the gathering that in the present political landscape of Nagaland, most of the leaders are still talking about the past events that are no longer relevant under the present circumstances. “Nothing is good in Nagaland in the present perception,” he asserted, adding that all have gone wrong because of resorting to only blame and criticism instead of approaching each other with understanding.

On the Naga political issue, he stated that even after more than 50 years of political movement with blood, tears and sacrifices, Nagas have once again landed in a terrible mess.

“The dream of Canaan for the Nagas has disappeared totally from the political firmament of Nagaland, and today tribalism and narrow parochialism have been showing their ugly heads to destroy the unity of Naga family,” he said.

He shared that leaders of yesteryears dreamed of a united, harmonious, peaceful, progressive and prosperous Nagaland, but, “alas! the present trend if not checked may lead to dismantling of Nagaland and thereby removing the much acclaimed distinct identity of the Nagas”.

“The younger generation of the Nagas today shall have to choose either a united and strong Nagaland or a divided Nagaland with no voice in the country,” he further stated.

He went on to say that a fragmented Nagaland shall always be a heavy burden and perennial liabilities, both politically and economically, to the government of India.

“The leaders of India as well as Naga leaders who are engaged in hammering out a durable solution to the Naga problem, should be guided by political wisdom and foresight and do what is best for the and people and the country,” he stated.

Further, Jamir asserted that the rapid developments especially in information technology and innovation are bringing a visible transformation in every sphere of human activities, however, ‘in Nagaland we continue to rely on passive learning’. On this, he urged the teachers to keep abreast of new knowledge and technology.

Maintaining that the quality of higher education largely depends on quality of teaching and research, he said it has become imperative to have quality faculty who will bring transformation in students and help them acquire the right knowledge.

He also asked the students to take leadership role, saying that their knowledge, positive action and thinking can brighten the future of Nagaland and the country.

The principal of the college, AK Talukder, updated that the management of the college had decided to start undergraduate Arts stream in the institution, for which the recruitment of assistant professors is underway. 

‘Instead of blaming each other, let us start working for a positive change to make our society the society we desire,’ he stated.

Short greetings were shared by Toito D Chishi, president of All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU); Michael Kath, speaker of Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU); and Kutoto Chishi, president of PCC Alumni Association during the programme, while Gulshan Sangma spoke on behalf of the freshers.