In any society, hypocrisy is a corrosive force that undermines trust, integrity, and the moral fabric that binds communities together. It occurs when individuals or groups profess certain values or principles publicly but fail to uphold them in their actions or private lives. The normalization of hypocrisy, as is the case in Naga society today, can undermine the moral fabric of communities and lead to widespread cynicism, distrust, and corruption.
One of the clearest signs of hypocrisy is the public display of moral or ethical standards that are not followed in private. This double standard erodes fairness and justice within a society, creating divisions and resentment. For instance, leaders or public figures advocating for honesty and transparency while engaging in deceit or corruption behind closed doors. This kind of behavior, rampant in Nagaland, not only betrays the trust of those they lead but also sets a damaging example for future generations.
The normalization of hypocrisy can have far-reaching consequences. It erodes the credibility of institutions, fosters disillusionment among the youth, and weakens the bonds that hold society together. When hypocrisy is normalized, it perpetuates a cycle of moral decay and undermines efforts towards genuine progress and unity. What, then, must we do to address hypocrisy?