It is very disappointing to admit that the Naga people are currently a divided community. There isn’t a single pan-Naga organization representing the interests of the Naga people as a whole. Whether by design or chance, Naga society has disintegrated and fragmented to its lowest possible level. The emergence of numerous ‘underground’ factions is viewed with disdain and disapproval. The absence of a unified Naga nationalist political group is undoubtedly a significant reason why the Naga political issue remains unresolved. The lack of an ‘over ground’ Naga organization that spans across borders isn’t helping the situation either. To an observer, it might seem that the ‘underground’ factions could be encouraged to unite if the broader Naga population persuaded them. However, without a pan-Naga body, efforts to persuade unity appear to be ineffective.
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) arguably stands as the last civil society organization with a semblance of a pan-Naga presence. Regrettably, the ENSF is not affiliated with the NSF, a considerable disappointment. Founded in 1947, the NSF is one of the oldest Naga organizations. Many who have served the NSF in various capacities continue to be prominent leaders in Naga society today, both within the government and civil society. To foster unity within Naga civil society, the NSF presents itself as the most suitable platform. Leaders of the NSF, both past and present, should convene and deliberate on strategies to unite the Naga people.
Mokokchung and the Ao Students’ Conference have played pivotal roles in the history of the NSF. In fact, the second general conference of the Naga Students’ Federation was convened in Mokokchung from October 13 to 15, 1948. Additionally, the general conferences of the NSF took place in Mokokchung in 2009 and 2017. Several leaders from the AKM have served and led the NSF. Notably, two former NSF officials from AKM, a former president and a former general secretary, are currently members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly. As responsible leaders, they should be dedicated to fostering Naga unity. This is not to say they are not, but the existing divide is so big, to the extent that uniting the Naga people seems like an impossible task.
Nonetheless, viewing this challenge as an opportunity could lead to historic progress. Strengthening the NSF appears to be the most viable option for uniting the Naga people. This, potentially, could reshape the course of Naga history.