61st General Conference of Ongpangkong Mungdang was held under the theme ‘Tasü Itang’ (Be Courageous), at Khensa village, Mokokchung district on January 17, 2025.
Dr. S.C. Jamir, former Governor of Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Odisha, and former Chief Minister of Nagaland, speaking during the 61st General Conference of Ongpangkong Mungdang held at Khensa village, remarked that Nagaland is “standing at a crossroads” and emphasized the importance of focusing on present realities rather than dwelling solely on the past. Addressing the Ongpangkong Mungdang’s theme, “Be Courageous,” Dr. Jamir posed a thought-provoking question: “Where do we need to be courageous?”
In his exhortation, he criticized the tendency of Nagas, particularly the Ao’s, to glorify their past while neglecting present challenges and future aspirations. He stated, “We are no longer living in history or “Lungterok” days. The past and future will surpass us millions of times, but the present is where we must act.” He urged the community to live in the present and translate words into meaningful actions, asserting, “You may speak a lot, but without action, it is useless.”
Naga Political Movement
Reflecting on the Naga political movement, Dr. Jamir expressed deep concern over the internal divisions that plague the cause. “The movement is a collective work, yet we have destroyed it ourselves. There is one problem, but we have 26 factions. Why should only political groups speak for Nagas? Why are the citizens silent? It is the real citizens of Nagaland who should raise their voices,” he said.
He also addressed debates surrounding the Naga flag and constitution, stating, “A flag and constitution are for a sovereign, independent country. Under India, we do not need them. Instead of focusing on symbolic issues, we must work towards practical goals.” He lamented the public’s reluctance to voice their concerns.
Cultural and Knowledge Gaps
Dr. Jamir pointed out the changing lifestyles of Nagas and the erosion of cultural values, criticizing the lack of discourse on advancing knowledge in the 21st century. He highlighted the disconnect between traditional wisdom and modern realities, noting, “Our forefathers ruled with truth despite lacking material comforts. Today, we have changed, but our thoughts remain stagnant.”
He warned against the habit of waiting for others to act, urging Nagas to seize opportunities and embrace leadership. “If God is my father, teacher, protector, and guide, I can live in this world. With faith, we can achieve wonders,” he said.
Dr. Jamir emphasized the need for the older generation to guide and allow younger Nagas to lead. “The youth are not being given opportunities. Let us dream new dreams, set new goals, and work for a better today. Let today’s work surpass yesterday’s,” he encouraged.
In conclusion, Dr. Jamir called for unity, courage, and immediate action to address the pressing issues of Nagaland. He urged the community to stop looking backward and start building a future grounded in collective effort and practical achievements.
Rev Dr Kari Longchar, a Missionary-at-Large, delivered a searing critique of the state of affairs in Nagaland during his address with the theme “Be Courageous,” he lamented, “Nagaland is in a state of ‘Ayatai!’—deep sorrow, a nation corrupted from top to bottom. From the Chief Minister down to the village councils, we are trapped in a system where power has shifted into the hands of a nearly dictatorial, opposition-less government. We have forgotten the sacrifices of our forefathers for Naga independence and sovereignty.”
He spoke bluntly about the corruption plaguing the entire state, saying, “Today, we have 26 factions, and national workers are threatening the public. Even the churches are no longer safe from corruption.” The spiritual leader warned of a grave future: “Our land will melt before our eyes unless we stand in truth.”
Rev Dr Longchar also condemned the handling of traditional fines and said, “Penalties are frequently imposed, but where is the compassion? In the past, our forefathers never took fines home, but today, the fines are redistributed among local leaders who use them for personal gain, irresponsibly.”
He urged landowners to contribute land for the betterment of the community, emphasizing that education, healthcare, and communication must be prioritized. “We need to invest in our future. It’s time for change,” he declared, calling on the Ongpangkong people to choose between the historical ties to Lungterok and their spiritual commitment to God. “Lungterok was our history, but we no longer live in the past. It’s time to close that chapter and open the door to something better.”
In a powerful closing, Rev Dr Longchar challenged the community to embrace forgiveness and unity, urging them to welcome smaller villages into their fold. He pressed, “Now is the time to lead the clean election movement. Repent for past wrongs and seek forgiveness from God.”
He concluded by reading Bible verses on truth and presenting a Bible to the Ongpangkong Mungdang officers as a symbol of guidance and leadership, leaving the gathering to reflect on the bitter realities he had so starkly laid out.
S. Supongmeren Jamir, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha in his brief address remarked “Reflecting on the glories achieved by our forefathers, while inspiring, will not suffice to help us compete with others in today’s rapidly changing world. It is crucial that we introspect and evaluate where we stand today. Only by addressing our present challenges can we pave the way to move ahead and thrive.
Truth must be the foundation of our courage. If we walk in truth and speak truthfully, our knowledge will remain pure and untainted. I urge the citizens of Ongpangkong to embrace this principle and continue cleansing ourselves in truth, as our theme ‘Be Courageous’ encourages.
During the recent parliamentary election, I witnessed how citizens, standing firmly in truth, made meaningful contributions and sincere efforts that led to our success. This victory is a testament to the power of unity, integrity, and truth.
Let this be a new beginning. In every election or endeavor that lies ahead, if we remain committed in truth and honesty, success will surely follow. Together, let us strive to move beyond past glories and focus on making honest, collective efforts to grow and excel in today’s competitive world.”
OM President Lipokmeren Jamir delivered the welcome address. Greetings were shared by I. Alemmeren Longchar, Chairman of the Khensa Village Council; Chumlamo Humtsoe, ADC Mokokchung; and Marsanen Imsong, President of Ao Senden.
The second session of the conference featured the presentation of reports from various committees, followed by the election of new office bearers.
Alemtoshi Imsong from Ungma, Tinumayang from Longkhum, Tiawabang Walling from Khensa, and Imtisunep from Mekuli were elected as the President, Vice-President, General Secretary, and Assistant General Secretary, respectively.
The 61st General Conference of the Ongpangkong Mungdang (OM) 2025, held at Khensa Village, concluded with the adoption of six significant resolutions.
- Ongpangkong Mungdang resolved to repurpose the existing morung (Ariju) at Ongpangkong Salang into an office-cum-museum.
- Recognizing the talents and skills of artisans and craftsmen within the Ongpangkong region, the conference resolved to establish collaborations with the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and other relevant agencies with an aim to uplift the local economy by providing avenues for growth and support to those engaged in the handicrafts and artisan sectors.
- To strengthen ties with Ao Senden and the five other ranges, the Ongpangkong Mungdang resolved to ensure that its representatives visit each of these communities at least once during their tenure.
- The conference addressed concerns regarding naming customs within the Ao community. It was resolved that children born to a non-Ao father and an Ao mother will not be given Ao names. To ensure the successful implementation of this resolution, the Ongpangkong Mungdang will establish a committee tasked with collecting input from all villages in the Ongpangkong region and enforcing these changes effectively.
- The Ongpangkong Mungdang resolved that it will not cooperate with any Naga Political Groups involved in collecting illegal taxes or engaging in extortion practices from the citizens of Ongpangkong within the Ongpangkong region and will sever any ties with such groups.
- Host for the 62nd General Conference
Ungma Village has extended an invitation to host the 62nd Ongpangkong Mungdang General Conference, scheduled for 2028.
The event witnessed the participation of 281 delegates representing 40 units of the Ongpangkong range. The 62nd Ongpangkong General Conference will be hosted by Ungma Village.
