In November 2005, when former Director General of Police Hesso Mao was assassinated in the State Capital by suspected NSCN (K) gunmen, this column had termed the killing as a “shameless act of cowardice and one that has shocked the entire Naga population”. Likewise, the assassination attempt on the life of Goa Governor and former Chief Minister SC Jamir by suspected NSCN (IM) cadres should be condemned. Violence and killings in any form and against anybody irrespective of political color or creed is unacceptable in a civilized society. Whether it is perpetrated by the State or non-State actors, violence can only suppress the democratic beliefs of people and cow them into submission out of fear. Further, violence is in general futile and incapable of providing a solution to any problem, rather it only augments it. The continuation of killings and political violence will only perpetuate hatreds and vengefulness, further fueling the continuation of the conflict that Nagas find themselves in. This has to stop.
It is well accepted that respecting one another is the first positive step in building a relationship and relationships are central to conflict transformation. One need not have to like a person or understand his or her viewpoint to accord them respect. Respect comes with the belief that a person or group can have beliefs contradictory to theirs but still honoring them. Likewise, as Christians it is required that the highest respect for all life and demonstrating this, in protecting life itself, is the need of the hour. The local media on its part can also contribute to decreasing political violence through less sensationalism and more sensitivity and also to ensure that it does not fuel more misunderstanding. Sometimes, peace building requires quiet diplomacy and the media should be able to provide the breeding space for nurturing of mutual respect among political rivals.
At a time when Naga society is divided by bitter partisanship and polarization, the opinion expressed by common people should also not be ignored. Public opinion if taken seriously can enhance democracy, promote open society, improve communication and most importantly create the necessary space for understanding and dialogue to take place. Likewise, it can infuse trustworthiness into political discourse, policy making and public discussion and can turn out to be an important source of getting to know the mood of the people on vital issues. Greater importance therefore has to be given to what opinion the public have to express. And on the Naga political issue, there is no doubt that an overwhelming majority of people favours peace, unity and political reconciliation and an end to violence and killings. The question is whether we are serious about listening to the voice of the people. To ignore it would be at our own peril.