Call for constructing mindset of imagining the ‘Naga possibility’

October 2, 2022 30 Views No Comment

Dr Wati Aier delivers lecture on ‘Constructive Naga Nationalism’ at St Joseph University

Chümoukedima, October 2 (MExN): The Department of Political Science, St Joseph University, Chümoukedima organised its fifth Annual Veritas Lecture with the topic, ‘Constructive Naga Nationalism’ with Rev Dr Wati Aier, Convenor, Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) as the speaker on September 30.

Rev Dr Wati Aier began his talk with the necessity of approaching the question of Naga nationalism from a critical as well as analytical perspective, stated an update from the university. He opined that a constructive Naga nationalism debunks the idea of an idealistic nationalism and probed whether Naga nationalism can be realistic. He urged the audience to “articulate the ‘form’ of the imagined house” and what ‘form’ and ‘essence’ Naga nationalism envisages to take in building its house.

Dr Wati proposed that the way forward for Nagas to move towards a resourceful and realistic practice of sovereignty laid in “being clear of our historical foundations…against the manufacturing of ‘other’ bedrocks” and realising that the common belongingness that is unique to the Naga people shouldn’t be at the expense of disrespecting others’ uniqueness, particularly of our neighbouring states.’

He emphasised on the practical role of reconciliation in helping Nagas move beyond the conflicts and differences. He reiterated, “co-operation is nationalism begun, and nationalism is co-operation at its best”, and that what should be worked out from within the Naga family should be the responsibility of the Nagas alone.

While acknowledging the milestones achieved in signing the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position with the Government of India, he encouraged Naga scholars to own and tell our story, without letting others fill the vacuum.

Dr Wati also insisted that Nagas realise the power of context, and muster that power by focussing on ‘essential’ aspects so that non-essential aspects are weeded out from the reconciliation process. He argued that accepting differences is the first step to unity, and that Nagas need to remove “collective unconscious” (borrowing from Carl Jung), which alone would enable constructing the mindset of imagining the ‘Naga possibility’.

The speaker marked a departure from generally held idea of sovereignty when he argued that ‘Nagas should practice our uncontested sovereignty, without seeking it from those who do not have the rights to offer the same. The essence of this sovereignty is the foundation on which Naga nationalism can be built, leading towards constructive nationalism.’

Dr Wati concluded the lecture by reposing hope in a Naga future established on a pro-active and realistic imagination of nation-building. He reiterated it is time for a resolute decision to come about, despite the myriad of difficulties confronting Naga society. ‘Without a vision, people perish…we must turn the tide,’ he asserted.

Earlier, Dr Somingam Mawon, Assistant Professor, SJU delivered the introductory address on the objectives of the Veritas Lecture Series and highlighted the fact that the idea of Naga nationalism has been inherent since the days of the village republic, which forged a sense of one-ness and belonging among the Nagas. He stated that ‘Naga nationalism is not anti-India; however, many misunderstood, misinterpreted and misjudged’ and that “the Naga political issue should not be viewed from an individualistic perspective.”

The talk was followed by an interactive Q & A session from the students and teaching faculty.

Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/call-for-constructing-mindset-of-imagining-the-naga-possibility