Tsonga Semp
A concern Naga citizen
Nagaland, a small state within the Indian Union with a predominantly Christian population, often finds itself pulled in multiple directions—particularly when political directives from the Government of India challenge our faith and belief systems. Both the government of the day and the Naga public are frequently left with limited options but to implement the rule of law—decisions which, at times, generate unrest and strain the social fabric of our society.
Of late, the public has grown silently accustomed to the ever-changing landscape of our social and political spheres. Many have adjusted to the system—often against their own conscience—with little expression of concern for the overall progress of our state or for the safeguarding of our religious and cultural practices, a legacy entrusted to us by our forefathers. This complacency, coupled with the dangerous temptation to remain mute spectators in the face of a gradual erosion of our cultural ethos, will do far more harm than good unless we awaken to the realization of how vital, inherent, and inseparable our identity as Nagas truly is.
We have also become fragmented by various “isms” and self-righteous attitudes. In the process, we have lost sight of the strength and value of a unified collective identity—one capable of withstanding any force that seeks to weaken our coexistence.
The recent directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs mandating the singing or playing of Vande Mataram in all government official functions and school assemblies should serve as a wake-up call for every thinking Naga. The proactive steps rightly taken by our legislators and the Naga Students’ Federation are commendable in their effort to protect and uphold our Naga homeland. However, it is equally imperative for the general public to raise its voice against policies that are perceived to threaten our systems of belief and practice.
India is one of the world’s largest democracies, where secularism is upheld as a foundational principle. Yet, at times, certain actions of the Government of India give rise to apprehension—apprehension that, if not addressed with wisdom and sensitivity, may gradually impact our socio-religious practices. In the name of administrative or political convenience, no policy should result in the dominance of one culture over another.
It is high time we step out of our comfort zones and stand resolutely against any policy that threatens our unity and our unique identity as Nagas. We cannot afford to ignore what appears to be a carefully unfolding trajectory that may, over time, weaken our cultural and social foundations.
If we surrender to complacency in these testing times, what identity and legacy are we preparing to pass on to our children? What shall we say to future generations if they find themselves lost in confusion and cultural uncertainty?
The moment calls for awareness, sensitivity, and collective responsibility. We must rise above indifference, engage meaningfully with the realities around us, and work together toward building a stronger, more progressive, and cohesive Naga society.
