MY HOPE FOR NAGAS IN 2014 by The Morung Express

NOVEMBER2012 January 2014

My Hope for Nagas in 2014

Money and corruption are ruining the land, crooked politicians betray the working man [& woman], pocketing the profits and treating us like sheep, and we’re tired of hearing promises that we know they’ll never keep RAY DAVIES

CORRUPTION Niketu Iralu

It is not necessary to explain for good people to do nothwhat corruption is to anyone ing”, said Edmund Burke. in Nagaland, nor to anyone And people like Anna Hazelsewhere in the world. are, Kejriwal, the Bhushan Indira Gandhi impatiently brothers, Kiran Bedi, and so and famously dismissed and on, are shining examples of rationalized corruption as “a people and darKhrietuonyü Noudi ginning in this endeavor can tory. In order to good do this, firstcaring global phenomenon” when ing enough to do something at least be made with the year we need to have a fairly good a journalist touched on certo defeat evil. And these e r y - of tim e close We can make a beginknowledge and understanding tain scandalous vscams her associates. good people are2014. discovering It revealed the doctrine of politics and governhow tough it is to defeat a New Year of our roots and history. As of ning by evil. knowing and emulatance she followed to consolidate her power In a recent discussion starts, many ing some of the virtues of our now, many Nagas don’t seem base to rule India and to pass on her dynastic on TV with industrialists and usually liketothey regards Deepak or forefathers. legacy to her sons, andcome for them do have like- any bankers, Parekh, For instance, our wise. The nation none of economist and forefathers highly reupdiscovered with their that were all early risers concern forthe our roots and hisscams directly implicating her and her family garded Chairman of Houss o - c a l l e d tory. Due to the influx of easy as they had to go to their fields could be investigated by the CBI. The Bofors ing Development Finance new yearand res-themoney for “Corrupcultivating activities. Our into Nagaland from said case revealed this reality rest is history. Corporation, Ongive November 8th old President Jintao tionavailabilis not goingfathers to go away olutions to up some were also industrious New Hu Delhi and the of the People’s Republic of China, sternly told from our country. I think habits, to save more money, ity of every commodity rang- and hard the working. They earned the 2270 specially chosen delegates attending manner Kejriwal is going about is not right.” tothe be Communist more sensitive to their their livelihood by sweat and ing from all sorts of eatables to Party Congress in Beijing for The justification and protection of corfellow beings, to spendleadership more cars, They did not depend on laptops cell-phones, the once-in-a-decade change pro-andruption by the blood. Parekhs of today’s India and cess that corruption in the ruling party could their readiness to deny space to voices of distime with their families, to we are tempted to believe that anyone as far as earning their prove “fatal” to its 63-year-long grip over the sent and protest against injustice from crusadcontribute more char- this livelihood and rearing their allissue is well country: “If we towards fail to handle well,with it us ers and like there the ones already mentioned because itycould and churches etc. families were concerned. In is not much moretheto manner be done they prove fatal toBut themore party, and even cause are “going about is not the collapse therealize state”.that without sparing aright” shows hazardous often than not,ofwe factcomplicated they were and so hard workthought for how the background of his report on the the battle is for anyone taking it on. weState haveofInfailed miserably in the unique and extraordinary ing that even expecting moththe Republic was the trial and sackWhat are we to do then? Is it at all our commitand “toersbealso ing endeavors of two topand ranking leadersgeographical, of the Party,economical worth trying the never changetook you any wantmato Bo Xilai Railway Liu Zhijun on see thehad world”? ments by and the time we Minister reach political ternity leave. Even when the journey we in have shocking charges of corruption. Also ahead said, “Those who crusade, the half-year mark. As such thus far. But if we are toAldous pregnant women had reached sur- Huxley of the Congress a New York Times investiganot for God in themselves, but against the devil I tive am report normally not interested their date of delivery they vive as a people, a community revealed that Premier Wen Jiabao’s in others, do not succeed in making the world family had accumulated at least or $ 2.7 billion in better”. with making New Year resoluwoulddiscussions still go toon thecorruption fields and a nation, I believe our Our onlyendless “hidden riches” during his ten-year rule. tend to be no more than crusading against tions myself and I am also not chance lay in knowing fully in this way many would the end Everyone knew who the President was devil in others. But instant interest and hope are bothered about the resolutions up giving birth to their babies well our past heritage, culture referring to when he talked of “Leading ofaroused by anyone who shows what crusading made as well. How- high ficialsbyatothers all levels, especially oneself means do.or after reeither inand the can fields andranking history ofso thatforweGod caninsucficials” sabotaging the beginbalancedcessfully growth ofwithstand the had theturning privilegehome of knowing ever, I believe in new in theGottfried evening. the I wide nation by their unrestrained greed and grab. Anliker, a Swiss businessman, and taking part in nings andChina in making Onehim, more thing, they never ranging changes invasions risks theefforts deepening unrest in and some missions with in my work in Moral and commitments seemed toInitiatives complain. in and around us now the nation going out towards of control.taking But Huplace Jintao Re-Armament, called ofIndeed Change.it could only talk changes about “unremitting efforts to and uncountAnliker is inherited from hiseven father a bringing about and due to astonishing that in the the many combat corruption”. struggling construction company in Lucerne, improvements in ourselves able mediums ofSwitzerland, absence of modern medicine informationabout “It was a conservative report. But 60 years ago. By the time and also in our surroundings. and hygienic knowledge, our technology. there is nothing there that suggests any breakhe handed it over to his successor, his daughter, through in political reforms”, stated Open it was the leading company in the field in LuAnd hence this article; One of our local writers forefathers could give birth to Magazine, an independent Hong Kong publiand one of the top in the nation, known During the Renaissance once compared cerne the present their off-springs in such mancation specializing in Chinese politics. for its unmatched achievements in economic period inIndeed Europe, the people Naga society to a Christmas without much problem corruption is a global phenomterms as well asners in how management and laenon. India, the world’s largest “democracy”, bour brought the best out of one suddenly developed a craze tree. A Christmas tree is very and rear them up another. successfully and “Communist” China most stirring I shall give his story as he writand deep liking for the oldwith an- the beautiful; it has many decorawithout caring forhad anyitsort of slogans for the down-trodden, the two emergten out in English for his visit to Nigeria some cient Greco-Roman waysareofequally tionsparalyzed and many colors and it precautions. For me, all these ing Asian super powers, years ago. by corruption. What Titus Livius said of his decalife. They began to value and instantly makes a breathtak- are inspirational stories when dent society the Roman correctly “At age ofI 25 I worked very hard search for all under the things that Empire ing impression on the all who realize that many of usand todescribes the crisis of the two giants: “We have took the Swiss Federal Diploma in Accountwere connected with where the life-weencounters However, a day would take leave reached the point cannot bearit. ancy. I started 50 companies. They from were our so style, art our and vices culture the anChristmas tree isinterwoven not a realthatworks even we happen to either orof their cure”. no one but if I knew what be“For evil to succeed it is only necessary longed to whom. My training as a Chartered cient Greeks and Romans. In tree and it cannot withstand wake up in the morning with

Accountant enabled me to aim became to satisfy the real needs of peounderstand the complicated ple. For decades we have given priority to connections in the finanlow-priced housing. We refused to speculate cial world. But above all it with our reserves of building land. If we had enabled me to cheat heavily indulged in such speculation we often could on the income tax. We had have made bigger profits than by building three balance sheets: one for houses ourselves. Through our new policy we to came forward and assisted the der, Caesar, Martin Luther, aries worked in our midst the tax authorities, that was built a few thousand housing units at low cost. individual in house –buildAristotle, Plato,It isMachiavelli, in usthe thisprofit message completely crooked; one for true that as a implant consequence mar- of ing tasks. They the considered it Karl Marx whybecame shouldn’t love,But hope shareholders which wasetc, gin smaller. in and spiteforgiveness? of that theOr fairly crooked; and one for income of the firm increased. their responsibility even if it they also study about the life for that matter, do our school myself that was correct. Evewas just an individual or fam- and philosophies of the Naga kids even know the names ry year it took two months Trust: Honesty is costly, but in the long run it ily trying to build house forthese pioneers who spearheaded the trust. of theThere American missionartoaestablish three verpays. It creates was a period of sions. I was successful and movement? recession because ies oil price a few of themselves. Naga national who trebled. broughtQuite the gospel missed the essential building firms closed down but we always had A beginning yet can I also be Similarly, instead of lying Jesus Christ to us? Therefore, which makes life worth livenough contracts – some of them from the made with the ing. information our school State children thatof our if we really believe that Jesus I was boredtoand empty. because reputation. I had to take pills to be fit and knowledge we are passing Nagaland in only 16579 sq. is God and that the gospel and moreEven pills tokm sleep. Revolutionary One of day I prodown to our children. in size, why don’t we tell teamwork: and philosophy Christ can One weekend I met the organization posed to the Works Council to share 50% when we fail to be honest all them that the lands of the Nachange even the hardest called Moral Re-Armament. It turned me of the profit with the workers. They were of the times in other areas, when gas in by South Asia measure hearts, shouldn’t ournot chil180 degrees around. I was fascinated the East speechless. We kept our why promise but did idea of living to transform the world instead give them cash and instead invested the monit comes to the task of passing more than 100,000 sq. km? We dren read and know about the of only for my own success. I was struck by ey in social benefit funds. One fund was for down information to our upalso let them that inspirational of these the freedom of people I met whoshould were totally casesknow of accident and sickness, accounts another was a coming generations, I believe the lands of thevery Nagas came topension messengers ofwere God20who committed to a world aim. It became the most generous fund. We yearsinexpensive myourlife. I be made up mybetween ahead of the of us thetoSwiss Federal we have toweek-end be honestof with divided India andlegislation troduced the true living mind to take stock of my whole life. I wrote State. This team work resulted in many valuselves and be extra-cautious. Burma after theable Britishers de- God more than a century ago? down 20 points that would have to different. suggestions from the workers for the Or else, the consequences parted from South Eastrunning Asia of the Certainly, the year in 2014 practical firm, especially the in Family: I had to get In honest wasalsofield security. can be disastrous. this,with the myinwife. 1947Itand thatof when the itself may be too short and terribly hard. I thought she would divorce me. schools and colleges have a big Indian state of Philosophy Nagaland was inadequate for accommodatBut she was most generous and merciful and of our enterprise: 1. We put role to play because schools created by the Indian governing and puttingisinto practice forgave me. It actually saved our marriage. people before profit. 2. Service more im3. Hethoughts who gives and colleges are still the best ment in 1963, portant the newthan stategetting. all these andmuch ideas. Income decided to go and could see the Minreceives much. We commit ourselves platformsTax: to Icreate awareness not encompass even the 4. However, I hope that at to least ister of Finance. He was totally perplexed to offer the best value for a fair price and we on any issue. In fact, we are Naga lands that lay within the with the year 2014 we would meet an honest businessman. He told me that regard it as our duty to make an effective Iin had payadvantageous no fine. But the unpaid taxes domain. from contribution to the economic development a to very posiIndian spare some time and thoughts the amounted roughly our country. tionpast today to pass to down the 500,000 Our Swiss school of textbooks also over these. The Nagas today Francs, a big amount for our small firm. My All this amazing developments grew correctscolded and true say that are to verytake much a part of this father meinformation fearing I would ruin Nagaland our out became of my the decision every morning and knowledge to our younger 16th state of theenough Indiantime union globalized world. Everything building firm. But I stuck to the dictate of my to reflect and listen to find new heart. The amount weour hadown to payin in 1963 taxes and has that direction and to the in basic source. ones because we have P. Shilu Aoto go thatback happens New York, naturally multiplied many times. Since that Through honesty I have found that undreamt educational departments and became the firstofChief Minis- London, Paris, New Delhi, initial payment the State has received millions powers are liberated in me which formerly university who decide what ter of Nagaland. But why is itby Mumbai or Bangalore will of Swiss francs which it would not have if I had were blocked a bad conscience. I experinot made that turn around in my life. enced the truth of the words of Christ: “The our children should study in that the textbooks are totally also affect Nagaland in one But there is another side. Because of shall make you free”. the schools and colleges. Like- silent about theTruth extraordinary way or the other. In the 1960s my honesty I saved two months I used to use wise, Nagas have also many circumstances under which and 1970s, it was cinema and before for defrauding the tax authority. DurConclusion: I find it fascinating to be an eming these two months I earned a great part ployer in the present day period of difficulties. qualified academicians who the state of Nagaland came ‘rock n roll’ that invaded us, of thethe money our firm to pay higher We are called bethe tools showitourselves have potential and had eagerintoinbeing in 1963? As long asto in lateto1980s was televitaxes. So I experienced this – cheating results useful to others and so it is with our possesness to become great and prowe very keepsoon these sions. vital From informasion,ofinview the Iearly 1990s it was in cheating ourselves, while honesty this point do not see myleads to a sound economy. And so our firm self as an owner of our firm but as a temporary lific teachers. tion away from the texts of our cable TV, in the late 1990s it grew rapidly from 500 workers over and steward it.” Therefore, if we50 aretoreally in children, we can never of expect was telephone, in the early above our office staff. such an advantageous position them to come“The to possess a ideal 2000s has it was and in Christian notinternet been tried today,aim why–should our children real,that accurate the mid 2000s was mobile New the important thing was I got and andworthwhile found wanting. It has beenitfound difa new concept of my job as an employer. My ficult and not tried”. GK Chesterton. only study about the French, knowledge of our past because phones. Many more invasions

We have reached the point where we cannot bear either our vices or their cure TITUS LIVIUS

this way, besides the artifacts the ravages of time because a light headache. American and Russian revo- we are feeding them with only of this sort will continue and of the ancient Greeks and Ro- it has no roots. The ChristAnother virtue practiced by lutions in schools and colleg- one side of the story. There- we certainly cannot stay aloof mans,Opinion the ancientistexts of the mas treesupplement will allure us published only our forefathers is worth es? Why can’t theymonth. also study fore,you I hope that at least an ef-the from these invasions if we are a theme-based on thewhich third Saturday of every Here are the artist, writer, the Greco-Roman era became the temporarily because it is not admiring is their sense of comabout the Naga Revolution of fort can be made with the year to keep pace with the world. photographer, the storyteller and the creator of your own opinion. most sought-after and trea- connected to the soils and munity living and helping na- the 1950s and 1960s? If our 2014 to make our school and However, in spite of all these sured items of the Renaissance manures by roots. Likewise ture. For instance, if a man or kids can study about the First college syllabus more inclusive invasions and commotions era. It was in this way that the present Naga society with a family wanted to plough and World War, Second World War and accommodative. coming in every now1 and people of the Renaissance era all the latest cars thronging level a plot of land for house- and all major wars that have Today we call ourselves then, we can still survive as a tried to improve their lives and our streets, with all the latest building, all his neighbors and taken place around the world, a Christian people. But are people and create a niche for bring about positive changes gadgets and electronic equip- villagers would come forward why can’t they also study about our younger ones even aware ourselves in the world comin their society by staying con- ments in our hands and with voluntarily to help him. Even the Indo-Naga war that erupt- about the accounts and de- munity if we stay connected nected to their roots and his- the lure of easy money and in house-building also, our ed after Indian impendence? If tails of how this gospel got to our roots and history by tory. easy life hovering over our forefathers never brought any our school and college going implanted in our land more studying, knowing, practicing In a rather similar way I heads will not be able to stand laborers or mistiris from As- students study about the life than a century ago? Are we and preserving them………. also feel that Nagas need to the test of time unless we stay sam, Bihar or UP. It was usu- stories and political philoso- aware about the hardships and and I hope that a beginning is make an effort to stay con- firmly attached to our roots. ally the villagers and commu- phies of iconic personalities overwhelming odds against at least made in this direction nected to our roots and hisTherefore, I hope that a be- nity members themselves who like Gandhi, Nehru, Alexan- which the American mission- with the year 2014…

One Single Hope

he list of my hopes for 2014 is endless as everything is in shambles. But I will single out only one HOPE. I hope that the landowners constructing mega buildings on the roadside will stop competing with each other as to who will raise the floor level higher from the road to make sure that water donot come near their door. This practice causes:

make embankment outside their property to prevent the water from entering their building. 4. Everyone make sure that the road level remains lower than their buildings. My hope is that some authority somewhere will wake up - pay attention and make some regulations/rules.

Who is really responsible? It is so difficult to make a drainage 1. Water to stagnate and erode the outside by all builders in front of road creating gaping and dan- their buildings which will eventugerous craters causing acci- ally join together and become a roadside drain. They will spent less dents and damage to vehicles. 2. Raise the road level during re- money than the sand gravel they pair and thereby bury the old use in making embankments!!!. adjoining buildings in the pro- The picture in NH 29 at Purana cess. Bazar illustrates my writings. Mhabemo 3. The owners of older buildings to

This is the time

My Hope for Nagas in 2014

y dream for spread like parasites. As the world is moving in fast Nagas in 2014 is to question pace, we the Nagas are also slowly iLLuStratiON by SÜnGkÜM ourselves where booming in the fields of Fashion, we are heading Music, and sports and also quickly in the future. Should we still pin adapting westernization and korepoint the Government, the un- anization which I’m sure you will derground leaders or the religious not find this word in English Dicleaders for all the issues that has tionary. However, my only fears made our so called state a laughing are - Are we losing our morality? stock when we proudly say ‘Naga- Does every Naga Tribe worship land for Christ’? I think it will be different gods? Why is there no an absurdity if we still blame them intervention when two brothers different communities fight? rather I strongly believe that every from EDmUnD BURkE individual has a small role to play Why do we become silent spectain their own community, society tors when we are suppose to move and neighborhood by standing forward and unite them even if for what is right and to be able to they are not our own? Are we not speak the truth. We should also the children of the same Almighty stop communal comparisons be- God who sees every tribe or people tween the majorities and the mi- as one? I’m happy to see every Naga norities and of course tribalism as tribe faithfully attending their own the most deadly disease which has community churches on Sundays

and good in fasting and praying, but what happen to the rest of the days that we are not afraid to kill one another? Why do we slowly entice ourselves into the realm of sin and pleasures? As Christians are we setting a good example to the non Christian communities? I believe we need to show more actions as, “Faith without work is dead” and try contributing in every area where we can bring peace. In today’s time it is not a big deal to hear every tribe having a vast competition in constructing Mega buildings and even hiring architectures from different countries to make their churches a unique and the most beautiful place to worship. But I believe no matter how big our church might be or how strong our community is, we will never live in peace and

“Among a people generally corrupt, liberty cannot long exist”

REBEL AGAINST

tranquility unless we have unity among each other. ‘ Forgive and Forget’ should be our motto this year as no community is above Christ, or as written in the Holy Book that “Vengeance is mine” we must not take the law into our hands as Jesus also respected the Law during his days, then who are we? We must always support one another and rebuke every evil temptation in our path and pray for each other until our life on this earth will be over. Then it won’t be long to witness the Nagas reaching the top where no earthly power can ever stop the Nagas to prosper and become a great Nation one day. This is my Marcia SekhoSe only hope for Nagas…

Limawapangla

here is nothing significant in a state like NagaIt is true, there are people, that don’t really care land even if we all leap They go life each and ignore the bad news intoona with New Year ButNew just remember some are simply unaware year. Year’s is all about bringing renewed hope and change. Some information still needs time to diffuse I’m afraid very few know the true meaning of New Year.people Throughthat simply choose to act blind There are some this article, I will stress on why it is They watch through candy coated glasses so essential now to the bringworld this whole Knowofthat there that were just left behind concept change. I wishare to others talk Much of what learn on a few things whichwe might speak is from our school’s classes and reflect to every family. Family comes first for been everyone. We cannot We have taught to live but not how to react disconnect from them. It’s a beauWe hear something so wrong we do not believe tiful lifelong relationship. Disputes Some people lost they deny what is fact and adjustments areare notso unheard Despite all the some things we can’t perceive issues. It is normal. Buttruth those settlements do not end up making things straight. Whatsome is important for evSo proud are to play the part of the hero ery family is to develop an equation In truth many actions proved erroneous of friendship. Building a friendly reThewith falsity scores many, lation your parent or with your while truth scores a zero Some things start nice and then end felonious child will bring about more security and closeness. I have noticed that need to be able to share and listen religion. It is all the more nice if parents here are criminals very hushed pay up both as a parent and as adues child. If we you choose to be a Christian by Let the free all their rightly about some issues and very rigid. all reflect back, all these rooted is- your own true self and not just Now it is our turn to make a wrong a right And they prefer to maintain it that sues, are the cause of disharmony in merely you are the child of two Even don’tchildren let them way. Youthose need notholding speak out a power, thou- a family, gettingabuse lost after very proud Christian parents. I do Never allow truth to take away your sight sand words before your child utters being exposed to the real world or not want to demean anyone here, even a word for his mistakes. That more worse getting tangled in too but I had to speak about this. Do will makeand up for a strong late all issues. My is advice to both par- you even know, if you are a true Benever a rebel tell the reworld that wrong lation with your child. I am sorry to ents and children would be to share Christian you cannot categorize Even if you’re mean, persuade that you are right say that you are detaching yourself all things possible, that will create people according to their caste or Research toDistancing find theyourtruthand and you will become strong from your child. whatever differences? Every reraise awareness both ways. Change their minds so all may shed some self from either your brainwashed parent or child is about purity and about Second thing I have noticed is ligionlight curbs so many things. It is a serious that Naga people taking too much having faith in one God they worSource: http://www.poems-and-quotes.com/life/poems.php?id=998626 issue. Even as a child, you need to pride with their Christian ethics. ship. It is the same with us Chrisunderstand that your parents have It is a sensitive issue I know but I tians. As a Christian or even as an seen the way of the world, so their know my words hold true. It is a individual, you need to accept and advices 2 are sound and real. You really good thing to be true to your respect other people’s belief and

Display now, a grateful heart, Now wonder, if you have And no matter, if you have heard; It is the time, if you have know that time which is near; you will never lose your chance in a year, Do not let yourself mind sleep, For you have keep promises lovely. We have to keep our time safely; For now is the time of bright in which we have so many miles to ride.

CORRUPTION The Root Of All Evil Perhaps, seek the person who are in bad conditions, To make each of their life in positions; Botherly, we will be blessed, And life will be as white as angel.

so much for the pride of our state There isupstill and it us to thesilence. current leaders

KUKNALIM Nagaland, the state I was born Redeem

N Renewed hope for change CORRUPTION JeNNifer riP LeStHat hayden

Kilangjungla Longkumer

in, rich in cul- to retain and preserve what they kind a silence hasare enveloped ture, welcoming-A wrong fought for.ofThe leaders supposed natured people, to work together for the benefit of Nagaland. is unfortunately Everything the state. Of course is corrupseems eeriethere and dead. drowned in cor- tion in every government, but if we Christmas and New Year’s used to be a ruption. Anyone look at the other states, their leadglorious time. would say cor- ers are developing the state that the Joy resonates in every heart; ruption is a com- question of corruption does not rise mon phenomenon in politics, but whatseemed at all. to be the slogan back in the past. I see in my state is more like a drug Nagaland known for being But nobody reallyisfeels joyous. which has been abused to its core. It a Christian state. There are so many It’s sad. has been 41 years since Nagaland re- programs held at our state and outSounds and echoes still prevail. ceived its statehood, but till now not side commemorating Christianity This timeamongst around too, much development has taken place. that prevails us Nagas. It is wrongthat kindinofany a sound, Starting from electricity to roads and alsoavisible political event educational institutions which come thatthat always starts with a prayer and nobody really enjoys. later, the condition seems to be almost The thesound rest of thecry program follows. and of people slayingIt is a the same as it was ten years back. shame that people, calling themselves ChrisNagaland is considered a tians and following so many tradibuzzing sound of shopaholics, backward place and we are really tions, they are actually doing satanic whobehind end upour ill fitted only. live up to this. The electricity prob- works backs. The money The reason best to known the less ignorant lem is probably the worst problem they use live to their lavish lives lot. and we are facing right now; this year I hope show’14 too, are not hardlessons earnedonmonbrings in some the residents have faced the worst ‘the ey,right but kind money stolen and which they do of silence sound’ conditions ever. The occurrence of not deserve. Where is the ChristianLima the problem as we read seems to be ity in that? due to the damaging of the electriIt is very shameful and emcal towers, but there were some ru- barrassing for the students aspiring mors as to why the problems really to study and learn more that have occurred. I don’t even know what to to go somewhere else to seek educaAfter tion. everyMany struggle something wonderful say about the roads. The only time students including me, face the roads get fixed is when some situations where we are laughed at, happen to us. So in this case the starting ‘eminent’ person comes to visit our coming from a ‘backof themocked year foratourforstate was bit jumble-up. state. After that it’s back to broken ward’ area. Had our leaders thought So opinion to this the rest of the following roads, potholes, etc. about the state, all these things would months go in Then peaceagain, for weitstruggle in The main purpose of joining notmay happen. would not the beginning. We may not predict the futhe government is to improve the con- be right to put the blame entirely on faith. That acceptance is absent ture for future lies since in theithands of God. ditions of the state, but here people thethe government is us, the genin join our to minds. And no amount of steal the huge amount of moneral public who be hasgood/bad chosen them to An opinion may either or may/ prayers and faith can claim your ey it receives. The developing states relead us. We cast our vote for them so may not happen. So it’s not easy to hope for true faith if you dothan not the have the highly it is not justifiable that we just sit and ceive much more other our Naga people for we change our mind set developed forpeople improving purity of heart states to accept the the complain about every bad condition in very often. As usual we can see it in the living state thesome Centre. Sadly, all this our state. way theyfrom are. If unbelievers standard of the who changed their is going to the pockets It ispeople our land so we should aremoney sanctified through you, won’t of the ‘great’ leaders we trust so much that on everyday our feet when and do something goals stand and aims they see sucyouwe begive the blessed one? our vote to them for leading about it. IfFor one voice speaks and the cessful persons. instance, even a student CallTheit other ignorance anything us. states or show so much hate others follow, it will surely who appeared exam but he/she isn’t make sure ofa butand these very small issues are mockery towards us and instead of difference. The rest of the world is her/his result. As many thoughts would be replying them showing that we advancing at such a rapid speed and holding us to back to by become what in their mind if he/she pass, wanted to go we are only giving wecan do do notbetter, wish for ourselves. We them here we are still worrying about our something is uniqueproblems. but if he/she failis more chances to do so. roads which and electricity Time cannot parade in our fashionable Our forefathers have fought less,common we should actSo soon. another aim. until and unless

Change in mind

clothes forever when both our state and state of mind is degrading. I am sorry to say it will never work out for us this way.

we go into that very day we cannot hope for the future but rather stay in dilemma. Soruno Kent

Who Will Weed Voice of theOut People Corruption?

ll I wish to see this year is nothing different but to see ourselves live like a true Christian and not like hypocrites. Liba hopeSon, btc, Pfutsero As a normal Citizen, I wish to see our road get better not for a month but for ram- tangible evidence that we areends not nificant. There is a notion that, if we its specificToday, timetheperiod. I wish corruption pant corruption true to ourselves and we play games are aware and somber about small among the higher and citizens temptations, we can with stand the prevailing state in our authorities with our tongue and actions. society isagainst plainly Now, where does corruption learn to fight corruption with their big temptations. But if we neglect recognized and come from? I opine that it starts and brush aside the small temptarights rather than disfighting against each other, extensively from the grass-root level. Much tions, we will stumble even when I wish political unite together so we we face big temptations. Similarly, cussed by factions us. I corruption starts from the public. have heard many are involved in cor- if we are not serious and truthful in can live with unity andFrequently, be freewefrom the burden people express- ruption because we want to get small matters, we cannot be in the of extortions, which the hard working people ing their views our work done very hastily or just big matters. When we uproot the pay inburden hugeand percent. makeweit I than wish plants our in our campus or surrounding, with much discontent- To because lovesimple, our life more ment against corruption. As I think truth. I’m bringing out all these idewe should not be idle to uproot dearest Naga brothers and sisters love for each other and share thethe about our life today, the wave of the as because, to do away with corrup- small plants thinking that they are love of that God, regardless our toinequities, thenvisible, I believe ‘blame game’ transpired in the tion,of we need know the nature ofonly not clearly for they willwe grow ‘garden of Eden’ in the all beginning corruption and plans. the factors leading and become big one day and trouble would achieve our hopes and of human history is still sweeping to it. I reckon that our understand- us again. Abigail Odyuo

across us and affecting us. We of- ing of corruption is also very narCorruption, as I believe, starts ten point at others forgetting that, row. Generally, when we talk about from minute things, which we often three fingers are pointing at us. We corruption, we mean bribery, fraud, take it lightly. For instance, in some nother New Year is here, and we daringly say, politicians are corrupt, extortion, exploitations, etc. But, simple paper work where a signature continue to seekisfor a new start in our contractors are corrupt, bureaucrats corruption includes many elements, signed by some Government servare corrupt, village leaders are cor- even those things which we consider ants, we give some amount to them, lives, and hope that the New Year 2014 rupt, business people are corrupt, to be alright. say rupees ten or twenty or fifty for will another “new added chapter” underground workers are corrupt I cannot boldlymean say that the a signature. But, it can trigger even and consider that we are clean and politicians or the or theWhile bigger we corruptions, have in contractors our lives. enter since the they year free from corruption. I don’t mean bureaucrats are the worst corruptors the taste of getting money in a 2014, one cannot do away with the Past yearsvery that these groups of people are not because I find corruption exists even small work. Then when it comes to we own have been Here, through, painstaking years of corrupt, they might be, but we lam- in my institution. please giving employment or a big contract baste and condemn them to be the don’t take me wrong, that work or big projects, loss they will Sacrifices by thinking the older generations, ofdeworst corruptors or sinners, albeit I’m trying to defame the reputation mand a larger amount of money. So, our loved ones, burden of the past may tempt many others are worse than them. of my college or expose the weak- according to my opinion, in order to ofhaunt us, a nutshell jugglery As I mentioned in my previ- nesses us, but it’s a fact.in I believe to weed outthe corruption, everyone ous write-up, “Everyone Is Expert in allof the the institutions some kind should be serious and careful about pasthavesometimes seems to overshadow Defending Oneself”, we do not smell of corruptions If you can tell me the small matters. our hopes and belittle us.As Whatsoever the our own excreta, but smell only oth- name of an institution is totally free I interacted with some of of temptation, Let usasking nottheir fall to ers excreta. Sadly, many a times, we ofpackage corruption, please let me know, I my friends, view on how fail to realize that, we push others would like to pay a visit. to do away with corruption, they it.The battle for a New Year is ours, we have to corruption, but criticize them Corruption exists even in the shared their opinions which were a responsibility make 2014a Year “with when they go wrong. For instance, Church and I believe you willto agree similar to my view. That is, everyone a Difference” each of arechange fighters ourwe we talk a lot about the village lead- with me if your understanding of us should oneselfin before ers and say that they are badly cor- corruption is not narrow. For inpoint at others who are corrupted. own ways, we are Unique, Special, etc... A rupted. But in today’s world it’s stance, we see many Churches with friend of mine opines that everyone And there is they capability in each of one’s us.life amusing sometimes when we con- closed doors and, in fact, can- should check and examine sider the way or system on how they not As keepthe themfamous open because there goes, and transform oneself have a corsaying “United we toStand, are elected. In the past, almost eveis corruption. In a hostel, students ruption-free society. It doesn’t mean Divided we fall”, let us, as an Understanding and mature Society ryone was reluctant to become the do not keep eatables or some handy that we never talk about others misreason Together, stand Together, and ahead Together, with chairman or secretary or finance or things on the table andmarch go out for a takes or judge others, but weOne should a member the Village Council, stroll withto doors open, because there never consider we are free from Hope, ofOne Purpose inbutUnison, share, care, Love and makethat our Statetoday, the trend is quite different. is corruption. Perhaps, these ideas corruption. In fact, this is one of the Nagaland a Better Place to Live. God Bless! Many are quarrelling and fighting appear to be silly or insignificant most important things we have to Rezia for the Village Council posts. when we deal about corruption, but do in order to weed out corruption Recently, I heard that there we ought to first dig out the petite in our society today. Sometimes, it’s was election of leaders in a small vil- things that lead to corruption. Some- worth criticizing and condemning lage, and interestingly, students in! times,The whenyear I read my published ar- oneself. We should not always ex2014 has justfew stepped 2013 and workers who were in New Delhi ticles, I come across silly spelling er- pect others to change and be comhas left our Naga society with tough were brought home to cast votes rors in a word or grammatical errors placent with our lives. ahead, and in has deteriorated forchallenges the Village Council candidates. a phrase which I have overlooked, Change will not come from Surprisingly or unsurprisingly, those and hence, I had a remorseful expepoliticians, Government officers and the situation in our land. The deeper persuaded guys came by flight, paid rience reading them. Just because of leaders alone; it will come from all question is how we are going to address by the candidates. And I was stunned a single mistake in a word, the idea of us. We should be constantly reneed spent of the hour sentence is went to wrong. minded by the phrase that, ‘everyto them? learn that The the candidates of the whole some lacs of rupees in the election I regretted thinking, if I have read one is a leader’. Indeed, there are “reconcile” and “renew” our values instead campaign. So, in this situation, the through more times seriously, that many things – schemes, funds, proof finding each other, so But un- jects and others that the illiterate villagers are sure faults that when against those should not have happened. that we can restore insituations our land. candidates are elected, they will cer-Peace desirable occur when we people do not know, so they can be tainly siphon off the money meant are careless. Remember, It is impossible to change everything“A rotten taken advantage of and siphoned for the village through village funds, potato will rot the whole potatoes”! off by the knowledgeable or eduin and fortnight. Yet to about cut change, cated people easily. Consequently, in NREGS others. So, will it beit apt is possible When I think or down right for shortcomings the villagers to criticize always reminded and inspired by such matter, we need some erudite andI’mbuild positive the village leaders if they take vil- Leo Tolstoy’s popular quote, “Every- and wise leaders who can mobilize attitude as we go. Therefore as we go lage money more than they have body wants to change the world, but and tell people about these, educate along as Nagas spent in the together, election? Can’t may we saywenobody wants to reason change oneself”. In them, assist them and ensure that that villagers directly or indirectly fact, we often think and say that the they enjoy the privileges. together with unity and bring changes signal the candidates that they can politicians, bureaucrats, contractors, I wish some wise leaders to our land and may every Naga be an be corrupt? This is the situation we business people, underground work- would emerge to influence people of positive ers change. areinstrument facing today. and other leaders are corrupt, that would not to give money to Consider about demanding while considering ourselves to be anybody for any job so that the sysLimongi Khuvung money for jobs! Many often grum- righteous and good. Although, not tem will be clean and fair one day! ble saying, it’s very hard to get job trying to lift up the head of these I wish everyone recognizes and retoday, we cannot get jobs without groups of people, I would like to say alizes that to do away with corrupmoney, jobs are bought with mon- that they areAs corrupted to a great the tion; New one’s Year life should be positively we celebrate 2014, may ey, so on and so forth. But imagine extent because of the public. For inchanged. I would like to say that if we reflect on the Past decades and learn if all the people who apply for jobs stance, if a lazy student gets admis- we examine our lives and be transfrom mistakes, seek decide not to give any money to the sion in a very good our institution and formed, and to live reconcile a truthful and grow finds in eveUnison aslife, a truth Society. May officers demanding, will they say studies thereand and she/he faithful and faithfulness that without money nothing will be ryone studying hard, that student will hunt all those who are corrupt we learn from the great ordeals of our worked out? We say politicians are will not be comfortable or free to and change them. But, if we are Forefathers, thenotexhilarating spirit corrupt, but how much money do we go on living with his sluggish habits. faithful and truthful, those who of Oneness theyare corrupt displayed amongst demand from them before election? He will be immensely influenced and now will get bolder and How much do we spend in foods and dragged down by the environment, bolder, andand become more corrupt in themselves, friends, neighbors drinks? Why do we run after differ- where all the students work hard to the future. If we are still overruled across boundaries. We, as a Society ent candidates for money? We criti- achieve their goal. Likewise, if all by the concept that corruption will sure, be make 2014 year of cize them, but when we are in need the people can, around afor Government stopped whena the bureaucrats, of money, don’t we elevate them Officer in a Unity, locality arewhere good and groups, eachcontractors, tribe, politicians, color, UG race, very high and treat them like kings truthful, the denomination officer will find hard to business people and other leaders will rise above their even in the Church worship servic- be corrupt and deceitful. change their lives, I opine that there together to es? Are the people of the commuMany differences boldly are involved and in is aUnite long way for us to go to remove nity more corrupt or the politicians? corruption because know Who is corrupted? Who make they 2014 a that yearcorruption. free from Conflict, Many often complain about chasing they can stand because the and people misunderstanding. will weed out corruption? I May believe Violence the worshippers who have occupied around them are also not truthful. corruption can be removed when we the strive to Nagaland a about State the front benches when some impor- They know that people are alsomake everybody is concerned one’s that The isrootCharacteristic of “Corruption the True tant personalities come to attend loose and corrupt. of cor- life and change. starts Church service or Jubilee or other ruption is from small matters which from us and thus we have to weed Principles of Christian Values. God important programs. In fact, this is we consider to be trivial and insig- out corruption”.

Bless our Nagaland.

Nokenchiba Aier

s we step into the new dawn of 2014, it is imperative to Reflect back on 2013, the sacrifices which our people made for a brighter future for Nagaland, it has given hope to all the young Nagas, who aspire to see all Nagas “Unite” irrespective of our tribes, to fight for our common cause and work towards building a Nagaland of our Dreams, wishing that 2014 will be a paradigm shift in Naga history where we can see Unity, Peace, Progress and Prosperity. Government should work towards improving higher level of education and health care in rural areas better roads, electricity and all the basic foundations required to build a healthy and prosperous society. God Bless our Nagaland! Changlem Konyak

n the recent past years wehave seen s p o r a d i c violence and conflicts amongst ourselves, brothers against brothers, hatred, and jealousy prevailed over our society. While we celebrate the entry of a New Year 2014, may we all unite and love each other as Christ did, share the little things we have, may we have Clean Minds that may be reflective in our actions. May it be a year of Peace and Unity, may we all be ushers of hope, peace and live together and strife to be agents of change in our society and make 2014 much better than the previous Year. Chumbeni Odyuo iLLuStratiON by aTonG roThronG o my mind, “Hope for Nagas in 2014”, in its most simplistic term would be “Our Present Generation”. The Younger Generation has proven to be truly vibrant, dynamic, free and artistic in its endeavors, I wish our older generations provide the right platform and encourage the younger ones to march ahead and bring real changes for the Naga Society. In the past few years, we have seen and experienced the bitterness of events and dreadful situations in our State, it’s time we shred away the traditional means of finding solution and rather think out of the box, and be inclusive of all communities in Nagaland. We as Christians in a Christian dominated have been given a special opportunity, which is to love each other as Christ Loves us, and share the Love of Christ even with non-locals and strangers. Let us bring out the Likeness of Christ in us. In reconciliation, may we forgive and forget the past mistakes and hindrances committed against each other, and may the Year 2014 be a Blessing to every person living in the State of Nagaland, be united firmly by the love of Christ and live together in unison. Jepito Khala

The fight for justice against corruption is never easy. It never has been and never will be. It exacts a toll on our self, our families, our friends, and especially our children. In the end, I believe, as in my case, the price we pay is well worth holding on to our dignity FRAnk SERPICO

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My hope for Nagas in 2014

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AAnhistorical Opinion perspective

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haCh PATTON

It’s magical, powerful and awesome. Nagas and their love for music are but a tapestry. It is inherent to both the old Lotha and Dr. E.R Renphama the young. It is inexplicably intense. I still remember one morning the expense guitar of Concept of hope tionfine of wealth at the maestro, Ren Merry telling his music stu-conExpectation and desire for the poor public. The latest dents at Patkai Christian College about the the best is a universal phe- flict is the conflict between the Nagas love for music and its prospects. nomenon. Every human be-words. public andthat theNagas factions of the In his “I find are iningcredibly hopes talented for the best to hap-they underground weI can have in whatever do. But as of as now as- witthat, to complete with on theDecember rest of the world. pensure inyou one’s lifeif we in are particular nessed 21st 2013, through ourthe music”. That 1994. Almost 20 years andIts’the life of society inwasatcirca Zunheboto. down the line he has not been proven wrong. general as Naga human beings are all musician have taken their passion for music all social animals. In thishave context, Holistic State of Some affairsmenacross the world and made great impressions. thetion maxim Hope the forindomitable of the Nagas can goes, be made“about spirittoday of the AbioDivinefore Connection, Alobo Naga, Neise Meruno, thegenesis, best prepare the worst”, Considering the Nagaaforesaid land Chamber Choir and the new teenage sensation the Polar The best and the worst are like sequence of events, today we Lights. Talk about Goa and Jamaica and you think of music and husband and wife with the con- see massive fragmentation of good times. So, Naga ‘musicos’. You have taken Nagaland to cepttheofworld. one flesh. Nagas the bring socialthe lifeworld of the Nagas in Now,Hence, it is about time you to Nagaas equal human beings must from of the bitter land and let them feel our be love the and passion for good music.divihere wethe come. the land festivities. ableNagaland to accept both bestTis and sionofofmusic theand Naga Hoho, the

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The crux of the questions: Problem Considering the aforesaid holistic state of affairs of the Nagas today, the crux of the question ringing in the mind of all right thinking intellectuals is , “Who will bell the cat?” “Who will salvage the Nagas from total hopelessness and helplessness?”. Yes, we must now acknowledge that we have multidimensional problems like the Saramati in all levels. But problems are always followed by solutions as the powerful Americans believe the worst part of their history Nagaland Tribal Council, the and act accordingly. in all fronts-social, economic, Eastern Naga Public Organicultural, political and religious. zation etcetera. Economically, Possible solution the State, the only source of The Nagas who composed of History in three parts survival of the Nagas is in a 95 per cent Christians believe History is divided into three state of bankruptcy to the tune in the Almighty God who is all parts, namely, the past, the pres- of more than one thousand powerful, all knowing and all ent and the future. They are in- crores of rupees deficit budget present according to the Bible. tegrally related to one another. despite the adequate financial Hence, they must come back to The past events lead to the pres- aids from the Government of the Bible and practice it in spirit ent, the present events lead to India. Culturally, she has been and in letter. They must allow the the future whether toward the adulterated by both Indian and Holy Spirit to transform their TOP: Ballet Students of hCe performing during the annual event. best or the worst. Nagas history western cultures with Naga Cul- lives socially, economically, culhope Centre of excellence Symphony Orchestra performing during is a mixture of the best and the ture at the back seat. Politically, turally, BOTTOM: politically and religiousschool annual Event. It is one of the first Orchestra in Nagaland. and administratively, she is in ly. They must resist thethe worst as we witness today. dictates By BeTOKA SWu a State of lawlessness, ineffi- and thePhOTOGRaPhS wills of the Evil Sprits Modern Naga history ciency, injustice and corruption. to commit all kinds of sins. They If we study at the modern Religiously, she is completely must repent from their sins of history of the Nagas from 1872 lukewarm-neither hot nor cool commissions and sins of comtill 2014, we have seen a history like the Laudician church re- missions and seek the forgiveof conflicts. There was conflict jected by God. Her only mis- ness of God. They must not use between Animism and Christi- sion is collection of money and the name of God in vain. Their anity. From 1947 till toady, we materialism without the main slogan, “Nagaland for Christ” have been witnessing a conflict mission of seeking the lost souls must not be turned into, “Nabetween Naga nationalists and and spiritual transformation. In galand for Satan”. Instead, they the Government of India over brief, the Nagas today is in ut- must practice, “Love is the greatthe issue of Naga independence. ter confusion, hopelessness and est” rather than “Corruption is From 1963 till now, we have helplessness in all fronts- social- the best policy”. They must place been witnessing a conflict be- ly, economically, culturally, po- God as their priority rather than tween Indian culture and Naga litically and religiously. They are “the love of money which is the culture. Ever since the eighties, suffering from physical, mental root of all evils”. Only when they we have been witnessing a con- and spiritual ailments. They are surrender their all to God indiflict among the Naga under- suffering from physical, men- vidually and collectively, then ground led byborn the NSCN tal inside and spiritual ailments. They only the power of the Almighty i was with(IM) Music me... and NSCN (K). Unfortunately, are in need of a Savoir, Jesus God will be able to transform a young boy of eight months playing today with we have eight Christ who came into the world the people and the land. So that hisaltogether instruments. factions of the underground in the fullness of time like the they may become mighty instruPhOTO By - VeVOZO VeRO By MiReuyi HeRie fighting among themselves with situation the Nagas are facing ments ofPhOTOGRaPhS the kingdom of God in Illustration By Atong Rothrong factional supremacy, accumula- today. this generation and beyond.

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February: issue Theme for august:

My favoriteNeTWORKiNG Naga Dish, and Why? SOciAL ANd

cHANGe iN NAGALANd

Deadline for Submission: October 12, February 16,2013 2014 Date of Publication: October February19, 22,2013 2014 The Morung Express monthlymonthly supplement ‘Opinion’ will be published The Morung Express supplement ‘Opinion’ will be on the third Saturday of every month. In the Opinion, you are the published monthly. In the Opinion, you are the storyteller. Please storyteller. share your story to next the theme share yourPlease story by responding to by theresponding theme of the issue: of the next issue: “SOcial NetwOrkiNg aNd chaNge My favorite Naga Dish, and Why? iN NagalaNd” Contributions can be in the form of photography, illustrations, photos of artwork, essays, first-person accounts, poetry, reported articles, and any other form of expression that can be printed.

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