The recent appeal by former leaders and members of the Naga Hoho to rebuild the institution under the vision of “One People, One Voice” calls for careful consideration. While the aspiration for Naga unity is commendable, it must be balanced with the realities of a people dispersed across several states, regions, and even international borders, each with distinct tribes, sub‑tribes, and customary institutions.
Bringing every Naga tribe and organization under a single banner would be an enormous challenge, if not impossible. The article argues that unity does not require centralization but rather a rethinking of the structure through which it is pursued.
A more practical approach would be to base representation on districts and recognized indigenous tribes. Each district and tribe would have the right to send genuine representatives—those born, ancestrally linked, and recognized by their community—to a common Naga platform. This system would prevent arbitrary denial of indigenous identity.
The piece stresses that indigenous identity should not hinge on endorsements from Tribal Hohos. While these traditional bodies play a vital role in safeguarding tribal interests and customs, a person’s belonging is established through birth, ancestry, and community identity, not political favor or organizational approval.
In conclusion, the article urges the creation of a wider democratic space where every genuine indigenous Naga can participate without dependence on tribal endorsements. It asserts that true unity respects every indigenous identity while allowing diverse tribes, communities, and regions to stand together on common interests, ensuring inclusion rather than exclusion.
