While keenly observing the present Naga situation and reading the press reports in newspapers it begs the question – what kind of peace are Nagas going to have? In essence, who is this peace for?
A Naga heart definitely yearns for a long-term peace that is durable, dignified, just and self-determining. The fundamental question is, whether the peace process is designed to secure a long term peace! Observers of the Naga situation often engage and continue to speculate on whether the present process will lead to a dignified long-term peace, or if it will be an imposed peace.
The current Naga discourse is punctuated by opinions that seem to swing between two opposing blocs. One focuses on the ‘politics of the inevitable’ which advocates that the assumed conclusion to this process is inevitable, necessary and unavoidable. The other emphasizes on the ‘politics of responsibility’ which defines and presents itself as the sole instrument and representative of the forces of history. Ironically, the history of the world instructs that both positions are ahistorical and a deterrent to genuine peace.
Just for a moment, take a step back from one’s fixed position and look at peace objectively. The history of peace processes inform that, in the pursuit for peace the powerful knows that when they take away the common cause of a struggling people, the people will turn against one other. Do you think this is what is happening to the Nagas?
To achieve long-term peace, experiences around the world inform the primary and core issues need to be resolved using the principles of justice. Resolutions need to be founded around aspirations and will of the people. After all, peace must be located within democratic values and processes, and sustained through democratic institutions and practices. Is it possible for a divided society to attain long term peace without healing, forgiveness and reconciliation? South Africa has clearly showed us that there is a future only when there is forgiveness and reconciliation. Peace is sustainable through reconciliation.
History gives the clear message that a crisis may sometimes stem from the fact that the society may be in an interregnum between the old and the new. Antonio Gramsci puts it wonderfully when he said: “The crisis consists precisely in the fact that the old is dying and the new cannot be born; in this interregnum a great variety of morbid symptoms appear.”
An incisive study may be able to determine whether the current generation of Nagas are in an interregnum between the old and new. What is, however, crystal clear is that unhealthy and negative symptoms are definitely dominating the Naga skyline.
The nature of Peace is forming new relationships and partnering with all parties, including former opponents, in order to go forward together. The voice of Thucydides, the historian of ancient times, would urge Nagas to reach out and help the political other to overcome their fears, self-interests and pride. These words are as profound now in the 21st century if peace is meant for all.
