It is easier to write as a journo than taking policy decisions as Netas or delivering things on ground as administrators and Babus.
But the breed called politicians never retire. In Nagaland, veteran protagonist of nationalism Hokishe Sema agreed to suffer the humiliation of a defeat in 1993 at the hands of Vikishe Sema. An erudite of electoral politics, S C Jamir too lost his by-poll.
But the focus here in on the Netas as a class. What are Naga Netas of this generation up to?
The easiest answer from common people's point of view is - "Na jaane ho".
The candid question that pricks every voter in the state of Nagaland is - "Why the persistent endeavour of the Netas in power and position to remain in power even manipulating things and dividing Naga armed groups is not seen yet by the faceless Naga voters?"
As a journo often eating and sleeping with the politicians; one does appreciate their point of view.
Apprehensive of their future; my political friends and some of them 'very old friends' in Nagaland have reasons to be against Solution to the Naga issue.
A few of them especially think - they could be rendered jobless.
The saying is very old and was once much popular. Late J B Jasokie (during the stint of Vamuzo as Chief Minister) had said -
"Thanks to politicians, the Naga problem will never be solved. If the problem is resolved. Then politicians will have nothing to do".
That was one way of looking at things.
But this is also true all problems need to be taken by 'horns' and resolved. That's the pragmatic way of moving forward.
But a few leaders (as in 2025) have created a phobia.
The fear-mongering revolves around the phrase ‘paving the way’ even before the other details or so-called "competencies" for the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position are finalised.
It is possible the Mizoram experience of the 1986 haunts them. Laldenga came to power in that state and the Congress government headed by Lal Thanhawla had to step aside.
It is altogether a different chapter that within few months Lal Thanhawla struck back and used the formula of 'Mr Come, Mr Go (defection)' to unseat Laldenga.
But in the contemporary setting; it is possible the Naga leaders (especially elected 60 club) are keen to explore options to "bargain" for their own career-security in lieu of working towards a Solution.
In Biblical context, it may appear too selfish.
In the context of future of Naga youths; actually this is dangerous and "playing" with the hopes and aspirations of the common people.
But it goes without stating that politicians in 2023 elections have invested immensely from their pockets. A few "friends" sponsored even candidates from other parties.
So it is natural he/they will have to explore ways and means to garner some 'profits' from the business called Politics.
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| Blogger .... see the 'writing on the wall' |
Next important point - but often ignored is - that the Indian Constitution is not intended merely to enable my politician friends to play the unending game of power.
The Indian Constitution is neither a structure of fossils like a coral reef.
Of the Naga leaders, I have always admired Late Chalie Kevichusa -- more because he was an Editor and always very encouraging to youngsters.
From some of his oneliners one remembers is - "You cannot teach new tricks to old dogs".
Veteran Shurhozelie also liked to use the phrase.
The statement generally referred to frequent defectors - a menace Nagaland politics was synonymous for years.
And it was heavily influenced by profit-making menace and muscle-flexing of money bags.
Paradoxically the old defection game is back.
It has almost transformed into "political head hunting" in armed groups as well.
New Delhi mandarins have been directed to collect details on "every pros and cons" of the matters involved in the recent split in the NSCN-Unification.
The centre sees this as more as an attempt to split the NNPGs.
The NNPGs was created after a lot of hard work of the official agencies, the authorities in power (in 2016 and 2017) and also Naga village elders and the Naga Tribes Council (NTC).
The Govt of India especially the Home Ministry will not tolerate this hard work of the Modi regime going into waste.
The March 22 development vis-a-vis Khehohi camp brought soothing news for New Delhi.
It is not that anyone in Delhi has any special weakness for N Kitovi Zhimomi, the man who dethroned S S Khaplang once.
They all need a respectable and acceptable face. Kitovi suits the bill.
And hence developments post-March 22 and some media statements show things are not going in right direction. And there are 'external' influence.
Politics is strange. The rolling stones and those who know the art of sleeping with enemies often flourish.
New Delhi is aware of the circumstances those make people 'sleep' with the enemies.
They might give any excuse. But they are saboteurs. The Govt of India will soon find ways to deal with the saboteurs.
But from Naga people's point of view - they need Solution today and as early as possible. They want a reunited NNPGs and of course the Status Quo club will have to be shown their place by hook or otherwise.
ends
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