Speaking at the Mokokchung District Gaon Burahs Association (MDGBA) General Meeting on February 27 at MDGBA Hall, Vitolu, EAC of Mokokchung, emphasized the critical importance of verifying credentials before issuing key certificates, including Death Certificates, Indigenous Certificates, Schedule Tribe Certificates, and Permanent Residential Certificates. He warned that careless issuance of these certificates could lead to the erosion of entitlements and rights, with individuals from other states potentially exploiting the system.
“I urge you all not to sign documents blindly. Ensure proper verification of individuals before issuing any certificate,” Vitolu stated.
Reflecting on the historical origins of the GB Association, Vitolu explained that the first institution to be formed was the GB Association by the British in the then Naga Hills, as the British believed in the role of the GBs. He emphasized that there are many roles and responsibilities for GBs, which are often overlooked.
He outlined the four most significant roles and functions:
“The first is to collect revenue, specifically the annual house rent in your own village or jurisdiction. Unlike other states, under Article 371A of the Indian Constitution, these annual house rents must be collected by the GBs,” he said.
The second function, he mentioned, is the Judiciary power: There were no proper courts, so both civil and criminal cases (except for murder cases) were handled by the GBs.
The third, he stressed, is Executive Power: GBs can raise opinions, suggestions, and constructive criticisms in day-to-day activities. The GBs serve as ex-officio representatives of the state government in their villages.
Finally, on Law and Order, he said, “The GBs oversee the administration of police and justice. They can act as rural police.”
Vitolu expressed his appreciation for the invaluable role GBs played as frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, elections, and the census, emphasizing the hope that such cooperation would continue in the future.
He shared an observation regarding the governance structure in many villages across Nagaland, where the administration is typically managed by the Village Council and the Village Development Board, with GBs being an integral part of the council. “In many cases, the village council is often dominated by members of the largest clan, while individuals from smaller sub-clans are frequently overlooked. I urge the GBs to ensure that deserving individuals, regardless of their clan affiliation, are given the opportunity to serve on the village council.”
Vitolu also noted a positive change in the revenue-sharing model, where the GBs’ share of the house rent tax revenue has increased from 3% to 25%. He encouraged the GBs to consider approaching the government with a proposal to further increase this share to about 35%.
Addressing the distinction between rural and urban GBs, he stated, “Rural GBs are directly involved in village development activities as part of the Village Council. However, in urban areas, GBs have fewer responsibilities, as town councils and municipalities oversee these functions. I suggest that the GBs advocate for their inclusion in town councils to expand their role and impact.
Do GBs still hold the trust of contemporary Ao Naga society? Asks Ao Senden Prez
Marsanen, the President of Ao Senden, emphasized the invaluable role of Gaon Buras (GBs) in society, noting that they are the only government-appointed officials without a salary. “GBs have served our society selflessly, without expecting anything in return,” he said, highlighting the dedication and service of the institution.
Marsanen further reflected on the historical origins of the GB role, explaining that the institution of GBs did not exist under the traditional Putu Menden system. It was only after the British arrived in the region that the need for local representatives arose. The British appointed GBs, placing their trust in the individuals who could guide and lead the community according to its own cultures and traditions.
He also acknowledged the significant contribution of GBs in the Naga political movement during the 1970s and 80s. “The British placed their trust in you. Now, it’s time to ask whether contemporary Ao society still holds that same faith in you,” Marsanen remarked, urging the GBs to reflect on their current position in society.
Marsanen, referencing the Framework Agreement and Agreed Position, called for collective efforts toward achieving a lasting Naga political solution. “The time has come for us to raise our voices with greater strength and clarity,” he urged, rallying the GBs to continue their advocacy for the Naga political solution.
On a cultural note, Marsanen expressed concern over the younger generation’s declining knowledge of their native language and ‘sobaliba.’ “Many young people today do not know their own mother tongue, and ‘sobaliba’ assuming others will preserve it for them,” he said. He stressed that the young people are expecting and relying on the GBs to preserve it for them and therefore, he hoped the GBs will see that as their responsibility.
Marsanen stressed the importance of guiding the younger generation with truth and sincerity. He underlined that wearing a distinct uniform is not just a symbol of appearance but also of discipline and integrity.
MDGBA inducts new members
After the program, the MDGBA inducted new members. Jamir (Tongdentsuyong ward, Mokokchung) was re-elected president, and Imtisanen (Chuchuyimpang) was elected vice president. Imlitemsu (Penli ward) was re-elected general secretary, Temsutoshi (Changtongya Town) was re-elected assistant general secretary, Temjennungba (Yimyu Ward) was re-elected finance secretary, and Tsuktimongba (Tongdentsuyong ward, Mokokchung) was re-elected treasurer.