Former CM Dr SC Jamir laments divisions
Morung Express News
Ungma | May 3
Addressing the 25th anniversary of the Rüna Khrietho–Maong Aksü event in Ungma on Saturday, former Chief Minister SC Jamir expressed concerned that growing divisions, factionalism and erosion of values in Naga society are undermining Nagaland’s future.
Calling the event “a time to introspect and retrospect,” Jamir contrasted today’s reality with the aspirations of 25 years ago. “There was hope of peace and prosperity… no ‘isms’ among the Nagas at that time,” he said, recalling greater unity and harmonious institutions like the Naga Hoho. However, at present he noted a troubling shift. “Today, after 25 years, we are deterred by divisions among Nagas. Tribalism has gone to the extreme. Factionalism and multiplication of factions… we have more than 30 factions.”
Jamir cautioned that the spread of “underground and overground” groups has weakened the collective Naga identity. “Naga people are becoming dwarfs, satisfied with small nests, claiming themselves to be leaders,” he said, adding, “In Nagaland, all the people are leaders, no followers.”
Linking factionalism to societal decline, Jamir remarked, “Because of this factionalism, tribalism, materialism, we have totally spoiled our curry… totally crushed the morality of Naga people.” He added that corruption and transactional politics have taken root: “We have become commercial commodities, purchasable commodities.”
Raising concern over parallel power structures undermining governance, the veteran leader said, “Today there are too many authorities. They don’t allow the government to function properly… every authority is engaging in extortion, threat.” “How can we run a constitutional government?” he questioned, describing the situation as “destroying the future of Naga people.”
On the long-pending political issue, Jamir referred to the Framework Agreement and Agreed Position, calling them “the only possible [solutions] under the present circumstances.” Stressing the importance of integrity, he said, “When we are Christians, we have to honour our word… honour our decision.”
At the same time, he criticised what he described as unrealistic expectations. “In this country, there is only one flag, one constitution, one prime minister. But in Nagaland, we want to have too many prime ministers,” he said, pointing to what he termed a “narrow” political outlook.
Jamir also cautioned against an excessive fixation on historical narratives. “Our leaders… only talk about the past; this is history. But we have to now discuss about the present and make present history for the guidance of the future,” he said, urging a shift in mindset, working methods, and inter-tribal attitudes.
While acknowledging ongoing demands for integration, he pointed out contradictions within Nagaland itself. “Naga people talk about integration, but… we have already shown a semblance of disintegration,” he remarked, warning that internal divisions weaken the broader cause.
In an appeal to leadership and society, Jamir said external forces could exploit internal discord. “There are outside elements who would like to destroy Nagaland, and they want us to quarrel amongst ourselves,” he cautioned, adding, “No one will come here to rebuild Nagaland. It is you… we can rebuild.”
Calling for renewed vision, he urged Nagas to “draw a new dream today – a happy, united, harmonious, progressive, prosperous Nagaland,” and emphasised practicality over rhetoric. “Spend your time on things that truly count, what is real, what is practicable, what can be achieved,” he said.
He further stressed self-reliance over dependency. “Instead of waiting what Government of India will do… it is we, the Nagas, [who] should rise up… and do what is possible for our people and for our future,” he added.
Framing the silver jubilee as a potential turning point, Jamir called on Ungma and Tuophema villages to lead by example once again. “Should we not be at the forefront… to rebuild the ship so that it can anchor on the golden shore?” he asked.
Concluding his address, he expressed hope that the occasion would mark “a starting point for a new horizon,” adding, “This should be a foundation to build up a united, harmonious, progressive, prosperous Nagaland.”
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