Seminar in Mokokchung Highlights Importance of Article 371(A) and Village Council Act in Nagaland

Mokokchung, May 12: A seminar on Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution and “The Nagaland Village Council Act 1978” was organised by Ao Senden at the Town Hall in Mokokchung on Tuesday.

Sentiyanger Imchen, IAS, Chief Secretary addresses the seminar on Article 371(A) and The Nagaland Village Council Act, 1978, organised by Ao Senden at Town Hall in Mokokchung on May 12, 2026. ( Image: DIPR Nagaland)

The programme was hosted by Metsubo Jamir, Minister for Rural Development and State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD), and featured discussions on the constitutional safeguards and customary governance structures of Nagaland.

Addressing the gathering, Nagaland Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen described Article 371(A) as a constitutional provision intended to safeguard the traditional and customary identity of the Naga people. However, he observed that many people misunderstand or misinterpret its purpose.

Imchen stated that Article 371(A) was conceived as a transitional provision and stressed the importance of adapting to changing societal needs through progressive laws and proper governance. He added that laws serve as instruments of social change and must be implemented judiciously for the welfare of society.

In his address, Metsubo Jamir expressed concern that many Nagas do not fully appreciate the significance of Nagaland’s statehood and the constitutional protections granted under Article 371(A), the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, and income tax exemptions.

The minister also highlighted the issue of reluctance among communities to part with land for developmental projects, stating that such hesitation hampers the state’s progress. He urged people to move away from dependency and work towards self-reliance and self-sustenance.

Senior Advocate of the Gauhati High Court and Ao Senden Legal Advisor C.T. Jamir elaborated on the historical background and significance of Article 371(A), noting that many Nagas are aware of the provision but do not fully understand its scope. He stressed the need to properly utilise the constitutional safeguard for the benefit of the Naga people.

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Advocate Sentiyanger Pongen spoke on “The Nagaland Village Council Act 1978” and explained the functioning of village councils within the framework of customary laws and traditions. He cautioned that village councils do not have the authority to infringe upon the fundamental rights of citizens, including through practices such as excommunication or banishment.

Pongen further highlighted that the Act has been amended five times, most recently in 2022, and encouraged village leaders to adopt progressive and development-oriented rules while respecting constitutional principles.

Ao Senden President Marsanen Imsong said the seminar was organised to provide a deeper understanding of Article 371(A) and the Village Council Act so that the Naga people can effectively safeguard their rights, customs, and traditions.