Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio addressing Sekrenyi festival at Kisama on February 26. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | February 26
Nagaland‘s Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio today stressed on the need to strengthen the Naga customary law for its unique history, rich culture and traditions.
The State Government is also intending to strengthen the customary laws through Dobashi and Gaon Buras (GBs) courts in Nagaland, he said, addressing the the concluding day of the two-day long celebration of Angami premier festival Sekrenyi-cum-Mini Hornbill 2025 in Kisama near Kohima.
Dr Rio emphasised the importance of safeguarding Naga culture and traditions, pointing out that the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) Act led to the introduction of the Inner Line Permit (ILP), which continues to protect the Naga way of life.
After colonial rule of over 50 years, in 1873 the British Parliament passed the BEFR Act which has ILP, he noted.
Though the aspiration for the resolution of the Naga Political Issue is yet to be arrive at, even India post-Independence, a special protection was granted to o the Nagas through the Article 371 (A) of the Indian Constitution, he added.
Even during colonialism era, the tradition, culture and customary were undisturbed and rather given protection and had introduced the Dobashi and GB and practice even till date, the Chief Minister highlighted.
All tribes have submitted the documentary report of their respective customary laws to the state government and it has now come into a book form, he further informed.
Dr Rio also recalled that during the British era and earlier times, Nagas sought the support of their friends in times of war, and Sekrenyi continues to symbolise unity and mutual support among the tribes.
He also urged the the community to uphold traditional values noting that tourists visit Nagaland to experience its authentic culture, not modern western influences.
To this end, he called on everyone to reflect on their cultural roots and work towards preserving Naga traditions.
The Chief Minister also spoke about the significance of Tribal Hohos, Village Courts, and Apex Courts, citing the Kezoltsa issue as an example where community organisations like the Angami Public
Organisation (APO) and Tenyimia Public Organisation (TPO) and others resolved the matter that could have been difficult even for superior courts.
Litigation in higher courts is expensive, often disadvantageous to economically weaker individuals due to high legal fees, he pointed out.
He stressed the importance of preserving traditions and suggested that festivals like Sekrenyi should serve as platforms to review and report cultural progress.
