Kohima DBs urged to adapt to changing times while upholding rule of law

Kohima, February 4 (MExN): A one-day orientation programme for the Dobashis (DBs) of Kohima district was held on February 3, at the DC’s Conference Hall, Kohima, to strengthen their understanding of their roles in administration, customary justice and governance.

Addressing the inaugural session, Deputy Commissioner Kohima B Henok Buchem, NCS, highlighted the historical significance of the Dobashi institution in Naga society. Referring to the formation of the Naga Club in 1918, he said Dobashis played a pivotal role in the early Naga political movement, noting that nine signatories to the memorandum submitted to the Simon Commission were Dobashis.

Describing Dobashis as a respected institution vested with both executive and judicial authority, the DC said that with changing times and evolving social conditions, Dobashis must adapt while upholding the principle of equality before law. He urged them to deliver judgments without fear or favour, remain neutral from village and tribal politics, maintain discipline and integrity, and discharge their responsibilities sincerely as peacemakers and representatives of the administration.

Speaking on behalf of the Dobashis, Notho, DB-I, thanked the district administration for organising the programme and said the institution was currently functioning in a period of transition and uncertainty due to changing social and administrative contexts. He expressed hope that the orientation would provide clarity and guidance, and reaffirmed the commitment of Dobashis to uphold Naga customary law, preserve Naga culture and identity, and contribute to maintaining law and order.

SDO (C) Sadar James Renbi Kikon delivered a session on the origin of the Dobashi institution, tracing its evolution during the British period. He explained the role of Dobashis as “men of two languages” who acted as interpreters and cultural mediators between colonial administrators and Naga communities, facilitating governance and judicial processes.

Senior Legal Assistant, DC Office Kohima, Ketoulhoutuo U Rame, spoke on the Village Council Act, 1978 and the Bengal Frontier Regulation Act, 1873. She said the Village Council Act provides statutory recognition to village councils and empowers them to administer village affairs and resolve disputes based on customary practices, while the Bengal Frontier Regulation Act continues to safeguard Naga customary law and traditional institutions.

Imtiyenla K, EAC Kohima, spoke on the present role of Dobashis in district administration, stating that the institution originated in 1842 during the British era and later evolved into key functionaries blending traditional authority with administrative responsibilities. She said Dobashis, as government-appointed functionaries, assist officers in village-level coordination, dispute mediation, inspections, surveys, law and order duties, and in supporting police and magistrates.

EAC (Sadar) Dr Riku spoke on the Rules for the Administration of Justice and Police in Nagaland, emphasising the role of Dobashis in customary judiciary, DB courts, recording of statements and ensuring that legal proceedings are understood by all parties.

The programme highlighted the challenges faced by Dobashis in balancing tradition with modern governance and reaffirmed their continued importance as custodians of local customs, traditions and dialects, and as vital links between customary practices and the modern administrative system.