The Naga political journey with all its human frailty is a historical fact. And given the complex circumstances that we are experiencing at this moment in Naga history it is imperative that we do not employ the shallow rhetoric of regressive ideologies of the past. Our leaders must come to terms with the fact that we all need each other, and we also need competent people with new ideas, models, and visions if we are to come of age as an enlightened, democratic society. This calls for committed individuals and organizations for whom power is not an end goal, but an instrument to constructively usher in the Naga future.
With this background in mind a group of concerned Naga individuals from diverse backgrounds, organizations and experiences gathered in Kolkatta from April 24-26, 2017 to reflect on the current Naga situation and explore ways to nurture a process of cooperation in the spirit of critical solidarity and Naga belonging.
he Naga gathering reflected, discussed and engaged on various issues and dilemmas, such as, the Naga Peace Process, Framework Agreement, Naga reconciliation, leadership crisis at all levels, fragmenting society, uncoordinated activities in civil society and the stifling corruption confronting Naga society.
At this juncture unless we collectively respond with discernment the present situation will further deteriorate and threaten the peaceful and dignified future all Nagas yearn for.
Recognizing the existing state of affairs which is riddled with fear and suspicion has led to an environment of severe trust deficit, and finally resulting in sectarian politics, the Naga gathering through a process of open and honest discussion suggests some practical steps for Nagas to move forward. Thus,
• We ask the Government of India to engage with the Nagas with respect, sincerity and honesty.
• We urge and encourage the Naga political groups to embrace the principles of transparency and accountability in their functioning.
• We implore the Naga political groups to recognize the political necessity to reach out to one another and by going to the people engaging in an interactive approach of consultation by earnestly listening and understanding people’s aspirations.
• We appeal to all Nagas to strengthen the call for genuine forgiveness among ourselves that will lead to a new relationship of equality, trust and dignity.
• We recognize the need to address institutional corruption and all other forms of structural malpractices by rigorously ensuring that the principles of transparency and accountability are applied in all matters of governance.
• We admonish the public to stop the culture of complacency and blaming each other by taking ownership of issues and assuming an attitude of shared responsibility in finding solutions to the varied problems confronting us.
• We call upon all leaders and institutions to evolve an inclusive mechanism for cooperation that comes out of a process of dialogue which cuts across all age, gender, class, tribe, denominations and the urban-rural divide.
• We emphasize the importance for consciously creating democratic and safe spaces and platforms for dialogue that will empower individuals, communities and institutions to cultivate life giving values with the will to realize hope.
• We encourage the various social movements for positive change taking place in the Naga context and particularly impress upon the younger generations to take proactive initiatives and shoulder responsibilities in creating a cohesive vision.
• We make this clarion call for peace and reconciliation for the sake of our shared Naga future, one that is in conversation with each other and with the changing world.
• In the search for our political, social, economic and cultural rights we affirm that it requires following Christ with responsibility in all aspects of individual and collective living.
Signed by: Dr. Wati Aier Khekiye K. Sema Dr. Phyobemo Ngully Abei-u Meru Khesheli Chishi Dr. Rosemary Dzüvichü HK Zhimomi Dr. Chingmak Chang Dr. YL Mingthing Dr. PS Lorin Dr. Visier Sanyü Meyasetsu Gaidon Kamei S Milan Sovenyi Nyekha Dr. B. Henshet Phom Kapani Krichena Kevidezo Peter Rutsa Dr. C. Ellen Jamir Joel Naga Dr. Lanusangla Tzudir Lovitoli Jimo Dr. Walunir Dr. Achan Mungleng Dr. Pangernungba Kechu Dr. Salikyu Sangtam G. Vashum Dr. Aküm Longchari
