Over-Burdened by Collections
Dr Asangba Tzudir
In a land known for the countless number of unions and organizations, a troubling culture has been growing across Naga society — the never ending cycle of collections, donations, and fund drives. Almost every social or community event, be it organized by student bodies, youth organizations, churches, or tribal associations, now seems to come with an obligatory appeal for funds. While the motives may often appear noble, it is gradually turning into a social burden, especially for ordinary citizens who are made to navigate demands for contributions from every nook and corner.
Looking through the traditional lens, the Nagas were known for their sense of generosity, solidarity and collective responsibility. Community feasts, construction of houses, or support for those in distress were sustained through a very structured form of free labor, grain, or livestock. Giving was from the heart, without compulsion or expectation, and which was rooted in the spirit of solidarity and mutual support. These were values that formed the moral fabric of Naga life. Sadly, in the modern turn, this 'coercive' culture of compulsory collections and the often unimaginable out of the way devised forms and methods of collection is only making the life of individuals and families miserable, being caught in the helplessness of not being able to refuse.
Today, hardly a week passes without some form of collection drive wherein we receive multiple notices or messages, each requesting donations for a new project, sometimes lotteries and buffets in aid of jubilee celebration and the like, publication, or organizational event. With it comes a very strong feeling of being obliged to contribute not out of willingness but more so compelled including the fear of being judged as unsupportive, or being 'antisocial.' This has turned giving into an act of pressure rather than participation. The spirit of community, instead of being strengthened, is being strained under the weight of constant financial obligations.
However, deep within there is a sad realization that it is our own creation, even as unions, organizations, and committees at every level of society continues to mushroom where each new group seem to require funds for its functioning, conferences, or celebrations. It is time we sincerely think about the objectives and the purpose as to whether its formation is need-based or copy-based. While some may genuinely serve the community interests, it may not be the same for the others while having to survive on periodic fund drives and public collections. While the well-off can easily contribute and also earn public praise and recognition, those struggling financially are often made to feel inferior especially when the amount of collection is based on financial status. But on the whole, there is a growing resentment and fatigue among people who are overburdened by relentless collections.
Talking about impact, it is time for every organization, church, and community leaders to pause and reflect, because, on the other side of its possible impact is the erosion of the very foundations of trust, sincerity, and community spirit that Nagas have for so long valued.
To this end, in talking about objectives and purposes for which a body in a society exists, it is about the service it provides to the people. However, true service to the community lies not in the various forms of collections for ‘celebrations’ but through genuine effort with a sense of purpose and responsibility towards the people. Yes, we talk about change but unfortunately the things we desire to change have rather become so ‘normalised’ and processes started wherein the trend continues and we end up paying the price. However, Naga society must collectively rethink and reform this growing culture of compulsory contributions. We need to have a sense of accountability in the things we create and do. This simply should not continue like a fashion.
(Dr Asangba Tzudir writes a weekly guest editorial for The Morung Express. Comments can be emailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
