In situations of strife, trust is a comfort very few essentially find; yet without active participation of trust, a nation rarely grows into its fullest embodiment. In the midst of prevailing assumptions, suspicions and prejudices the process of nurturing and nourishing elements that make up various facets of trust is a laboring process that demands will and consistency. Ironically, contrary to the norm, in conflict situations, surprise destroys trust; and tragically it’s a habit that occurs over and over again without any critical reflection or correction. Subsequently, it takes plenty of work to win back public trust.
Nagas are monumentally facing the dilemma of trust. While there is collective recognition that trust is indispensable for any meaningful understanding, it is true to say that Nagas in general are still grappling with burdens which blur their ability and will to trust any process of change. In effect, the inability to muster the will to trust has adversely affected their personal and collective feelings and desires to see and experience transformation. The continuous contention between wanting change and fearing to trust has been a dilemma that has unwittingly prolonged the status quo. The question is how long will this continue?
Rather than acting on factual, verified and authentic information, many Naga elders and leaders are leading the people and formulating decisions based on assumptions. The habit of making decisions on assumptions has political consequences which is destroying the nationhood of the Nagas. Decisions made on assumptions can at no point of time in any nation be acceptable as a constructive and justifiable means of leading a people towards humanity; rather it only dehumanizes. In fact, history has proved how costly and damaging it can be. Is it not the time for Nagas to question the practice of making assumptions and in particular decisions made on assumptions? The emphasis is crystal clear.
The truth of the matter is that Nagas can no longer avoid the unavoidable task of identifying the sources of confusion and distrust, and to begin a process of restoring communication that will allow people to look beyond assumptions and to recognize the human face behind each assumption made. Perhaps the little steps of consciously agreeing to stop the practice of assuming is a direction that will sow seeds of trust. Rebuilding trust amongst people especially in conflict situations require a deliberate process of critical reflection and self-examination.
In protracted conflict, no one can claim innocence. Therefore rebuilding trust demands acknowledging wrongdoings and committing to reason together for an understanding that embodies the aspiration of the nation. Perhaps in the fullness of time, it will become evidently clear whether the Naga desire for change, or its fear to trust in the process will prevail. In the end, the one that is fed more will prevail.
