The 20th Morung Lecture, held at the Conference Hall of Fazl Ali College, focused on the theme of transparency as an essential tool for accountability in Nagaland. The lecture featured Rev Dr Chingmak Chang, Secretary of Eleutheros Christian Society, Tuensang, and Lanu Longkumer, a professor in the Department of Geography at Nagaland University, who is also a noted human rights and environmental activist. Both speakers addressed how transparency could combat the deep-rooted issues of corruption and social complacency that challenge the development of Naga society.
The Cultural Roots of Corruption
Speaking on the systemic issues underlying corruption, Rev Dr Chingmak Chang allegorized that “fish rots from the head,” noting that the failure of leadership is the core of Nagaland’s challenges. He explained how corruption has become nearly institutionalized, starting from the top and permeating through every level of society. “Information is power,” he stated, stressing the importance of informed citizens as a counter to corrupt systems.
Chang observed that tribal hierarchies shape much of the Naga society, following a top-down dynamic often leading to secrecy and exclusivity. In his view, this secrecy is seen as a way to “secure identity,” but it also fosters nepotism and exclusion. “When we say cultural values, we have to take it with a pinch of salt,” he cautioned, suggesting that cultural identity should be something that unites rather than restricts individuals.
He further urged that reform should begin at the village level, where cultural and traditional beliefs can be re-evaluated to support a more egalitarian society. This grassroots approach, he argued, would create the foundation for local democracy and transparency. The reason why communitization has not worked is because we have not invested in local democracy, he observed. People have not understood what local democracy is, he said. He further added, “We cannot say our Naga culture is democratic because there is no space for women, young people and children”.
He called for a shift in perspective to view all people as equals, highlighting that accountability must begin with each individual’s commitment to openness and equality.
Addressing Unemployment and Social Complacency
Lanu Longkumer opened his remarks by acknowledging the pride Nagas take in their cultural heritage but cautioned that cultural pride must not justify stagnation or inefficiency. He stressed that the government has a duty to be transparent and provide timely, accurate information to citizens. Highlighting statistics from recent surveys, he noted that Nagaland, alongside Bihar, ranks among the least developed states, with a strong societal emphasis on government jobs. This has contributed to high youth unemployment, as many young people focus narrowly on government positions while overlooking other career paths.
This may be due to societal attitude toward private sector employment or entrepreneurship, he said. A private job or entrepreneurial route is often seen as less prestigious than a government job. He said this view limits the potential of young Nagas, stifling innovation and local economic growth. A cultural shift is needed to embrace diverse job opportunities, which would foster both individual success and community development, he said.
Dividing Naga society into three groups, he highlighted the obstacles to transparency. First, he described a “naive” segment, largely uninformed about their rights. Second, he criticized the “complacent citizens,” who support nepotism and corruption when it benefits them. Finally, he identified “silent spectators,” who see corruption but prefer to remain uninvolved. This silence, he noted, often signals passive acceptance. “Silence is seen as acceptance,” he said, urging citizens and community leaders, including the church, to reject complicity and to speak out against systemic issues.
Longkumer concluded by stressing the importance of exposing corruption and resisting its normalization in society. Only through transparency, he argued, can Nagaland hope to achieve equal opportunities and genuine accountability.
The session opened with an introduction by LS Vinod, Vice Principal. The lectures were followed by question and answer session. Concluding remarks were made by Akangjungla Longchar, The Morung Express. Vote of thanks was given by Dr P Tiatemsu. Around fifty individuals from various walks of life attended the lecture. Ab initiative of The Morung Express, the lecture was organized in partnership with the Research & Development Cell, Fazl Ali College.