Nagas have been fighting for independence against the mighty Indian aggressors for more than 50 years which has resulted in the death of thousands of Nagas. Naga villages were burned down and entire populations hunted down like animals. Which have left many children orphaned and homeless.
Still now the struggle is going on but it has changed sides; instead of fighting against the aggressors the Nagas are fighting among themselves. Factionalism has become a serious problem. It has created insecurity, fear, anger, hatred and to some extent it has even led to ‘ism’. Our Society has changed a lot and has developed in many areas especially from headhunting to gun culture. What will happen next?
We are at the crossroad of life. The situation has flared up and is pregnant with hypocrisy, selfishness, violence and so on. There are many who carry scars and wounds that are not visible from outside; they are in desperate need of professional diagnosis and treatment. The voice for peace is becoming louder and louder than ever before. It is a situation which needs to be tackled with love and care. There should be no room for ego, ism and hatred. Let bygones be bygones and let’s march ahead with a new vigour. The recent ‘Wungram incident’ might have thrown some light on everyone. The bold step taken by the Sumi Hoho and Tangkhul Hoho should be appreciated by all. Burying all hatchets, they have come together under the theme of ‘forgive and forget’. Which has shown that there is still a ray of hope for the different Naga factions to come under one banner.
During the war between Israel and Egypt, the President of Egypt Anwar Sadat said “For the sake of smiles on the face of every Child for the generations to come, I have taken my decision.” Peace then prevailed in both countries. As humans, there will be mistakes but lets forgive one another in true Christian spirit and work hard for the unification of our nation so that peace may prevail over our land.
One nation, one people and one solution must be the mantra to achieve our goal. Divisiveness and factionalism will only create problems and will do no good to anyone. So let’s solidify the bond of oneness and move forward to heal and to bring reconciliation among different factions of Nagas. Life may not be smooth sailing but if we fight under one banner it may be easier and will gain greater mileage. Let us fill the gap with the love of Christ.
In conclusion, each one of us whether in or out, have an active role to play. So that our people may enjoy peace, security and all round development, let’s reconcile with God and make our land beautiful and worthy to live in.
Kuknalim.
Vilasetuo Suokhrie
NAC, Walford Dimapur
