Reported by: Bhadra Gogoi
Dimapur: Nagaland Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen on Tuesday stated that Article 371(A), applicable to Nagaland, is a temporary transitional provision under the Constitution.
Speaking at a seminar on “Article 371(A)” and “The Nagaland Village Council Act, 1978” held at the Mokokchung Town Hall, Imchen said the provision was introduced to protect the traditional and customary identity of the Naga people.
He, however, noted that the provision is often misunderstood and misinterpreted, which he termed unfortunate.
Imchen stressed the importance of adapting to existing rules and laws that evolve in response to changing times and societal requirements. He further said that laws function as instruments of social change and are essential for the progress of society.
He also observed that while laws are framed for the collective good, effective governance depends on their proper and judicious implementation for public welfare.
The seminar was organised by the Ao Senden, the apex body of the Ao Naga community, and hosted by Nagaland Rural Development Minister Metsubo Jamir, who also addressed the gathering briefly.
The event aimed to spread awareness and share knowledge on constitutional safeguards and village governance in Nagaland.
Representatives from Ao Senden, range unions, village and town bodies, legislators, councillors, student organisations, and other stakeholders attended the programme.