Leaders of Manipur Nagas are Hypocrites, Unprincipled

Recent developments of inviting the chief architect of Manipur violence, N. Biren Singh, by leaders of Manipur Nagas or Kuchha Nagas in their festivals, amid tensions between the warring parties, clearly indicate that they have deserted a set of principles they are supposed to faithfully follow, thus losing dignity in their political aspiration. They cannot be called ‘men of principles’.

It is ironic that the Nagas of Manipur are shouting ‘Greater Nagalim’ to be curved out of Manipur; but in reality, they are embracing or supporting Manipur’s territorial integrationists like N. Biren Singh. It seems that their dream of fulfilling the much-touted “framework agreement”, signed between NSCN(IM) and the Government of India, has been blown in the wind.

All they did against the Kuki-Zo people, even in silly matters, proved that they took a less neutral stance in letter and spirit on ground (even though they speak of neutrality in their mouths). Their actions manifest that they are more of “Manipuris” than “Nagamese”.

For instance, during the Robvena Ni festival held in the Naga-inhabited Senapati headquarters, the Meitei CM N. Biren Singh has sought the help of Manipur Nagas for peace and integration, which the Nagas happily complied. He said, “The role of the people of Senapati district is huge. The role of the Naga Peoples’ Organisation, Senapati District Students’ Association, United Naga Council Headquarters and other civic societies is huge in protecting the unity and integrity of the state and strengthening the indigenous communities of Manipur”.

This shows that even though they speak of Nagas sovereignty in their mouth, their actions are for “United Manipur”, together with the Meiteis. They are hypocrites, unprincipled.

The Manipur Nagas should note that the Bible calls hypocrisy a sin. Here are some examples of how the Bible describes hypocrisy - Matthew 6:2, 5, 16: Jesus rebuked the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy. Job 8:13: “The hypocrite’s hope shall perish”. Matthew 23:3: Hypocrisy is the failure to practice what you preach. Matthew 23:25-28: Hypocrisy is appearing outwardly righteous to others, while actually being full of uncleanness and self-indulgence. Matthew 7:15: Jesus called hypocrites “wolves in sheep’s clothing”. Matthew 23:27: Jesus called hypocrites “whitewashed tombs”. Matthew 23:33: Jesus called hypocrites “snakes,” and “brood of vipers”.