Dimapur, August 28 (MExN): The Gaon Bura Union Dimapur (Sadar) on Saturday strongly opposed the proposal to change the nomenclature of Gaon Buras (GBs) and its role in urban areas as discussed in the consultative meeting held by the State government with the Tribal Hohos on August 18.
In a press statement through its President M Y Ngullie, Vice President W Kholie Kapfo and General Secretary T Onen Jamir, the Union said that the GB establishment is the oldest institution in existence even before statehood and more importantly, the custodians of Naga customary laws, practices and its traditions which were passed down through the generations. It claimed that the institution was even acknowledged by the British as “one of the best unwritten forms of democracy system.”
“The formation principality of statehood is based on Article 371 (A) becoming a special provision act in the constitution of India. The state and Nagas has been enjoying special privilege because of the act which is protecting the Naga Customary practices recognized by Indian law,” the GBUD stated.
It questioned as to what prompted the proposal to change the nomenclature of GBs and the need to look at their role in urban areas, after years of enjoying the fruits of Article 371 (A).
“If it is so, it will indicate the culture, tradition and customary practices which are the base of our unique identity is no more practicable and become redundant for the Nagas in urban areas,” it cautioned.
Irrespective of urban or rural area, the ethos which defines Nagas’ existence will remain the same; it asserted and added that the consequences of segregation structure would be detrimental to the socio-culture fabric of the Naga society.
As such, the GBUD urged the government to renounce the contemplation of changing the nomenclature and the role of GBs in urban areas, and ensure that the “unrivalled legacy of Naga identity and civilization continues to subsist.”
