In a truly democratic and just society, decisions are not just simply made with the active participation of people; they are made in response to a society’s collective need and for the common good of all. Unfortunately, a glance into the prevailing trend in Naga policy making, will indicate that decisions are only being made by those ruling, and of course in their interest as well. There is a nagging feeling that decisions being made are pro-rich. The visible cleft in Naga society is the straining relation between those with economic power and those without; and for a people that prides of an egalitarian history, nothing could be more tragic.
Take for instance, the roads. Though Nagaland state has one of the highest ratio of vehicles, it is a matter of fact, that majority of the people are without vehicles. Yet, the roads are not pedestrian-friendly at all. With the growing population of people, as well as increase of vehicles, there is a constant ongoing struggle for space on the roads; often making it unsafe for pedestrians. Would it not be wise to construct a durable and safe walking pathway? Is it not in the interest and safety of those without vehicles, after all they are the majority! The practice of just identifying problems and acting on them without providing alternative remedies only induces the problem.
Inspite of an uncertain political future, the ongoing uni-lateral and bi-lateral ceasefires between Government of India and Naga political organizations over the years have changed the face of Naga society. Internal and external business investors have seized this opportunity to take risks in initiating new business ventures. While it is much appreciated and needed, yet, the direction it has taken is raising quite a bit of concern. It would be a matter of political positioning and perspective as to define what the priorities of the Naga people ought to be.
Yet, it is a matter of fact that the question of poverty must be addressed and though the issue of ‘reconstruction’ continues to be ignored; it is of utmost importance to take steps towards this end at every given opportunity. This period of ceasefires has been a good opportunity to address both poverty and reconstruction at varying levels.
It would be fair to say that Nagas as a whole have failed to utilize this period of ceasefires to engage with the social issues facing the people. Instead, the response has been reactive, and people have gone into a frenzy of stockpiling and filling up their pockets, just as if they are preparing for another storm. This social behavior itself is negative and defensive. It is not a forward looking behavior. It implies that there will be another storm.
From this point of view, the direction in which Nagas are moving is only in the interest of a few. Unless this trend is addressed, the cleft between the haves and have-nots will become the most difficult issue for Nagas to resolve in our time.
