The Role of the Nagaland Church in Separatist Activities in Northeast India

Introduction

The northeastern region of India is a mosaic of ethnic diversity and complex socio-political dynamics. In this volatile landscape, Nagaland's church organizations have been accused of supporting separatist activities, posing a significant threat to the stability and unity of the region. This article delves into the multifaceted issue, examining the demand for Greater Nagaland, the impact on neighboring states, and the broader implications for national integrity.

The Demand for Greater Nagaland

The Greater Nagaland movement seeks to include parts of Manipur, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh within its boundaries. This demand has led to significant tensions and conflicts, threatening the very existence of these already fragile states.

Impact on Manipur

The inclusion of districts from Manipur into Greater Nagaland is a contentious issue. Manipur, a small state with a rich cultural heritage, faces the risk of disintegration if such demands are met. The resistance of Manipur's people is both natural and justified, as they strive to protect their land and identity. The imposition of a 52-day economic blockade by separatist outfits in July-August last year exemplifies the severe repercussions of these demands. The blockade crippled the state's economy and brought untold suffering to its people, with the administration's indifference only emboldening the separatist groups.

Assam's Karbi Anglong and N.C. Hills

Similarly, the Greater Nagaland movement's aspirations extend to Assam's Karbi Anglong and North Cachar Hills (N.C. Hills), predominantly Hindu regions. The Karbi and Dimasa tribes, who have coexisted peacefully, are now embroiled in conflict, instigated by separatist forces. These conflicts have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives, the destruction of villages, and the displacement of over 70,000 people. The Hindu society must recognize this as a deliberate conspiracy by the Church to sow discord among indigenous tribes and work towards aiding the affected communities.

Conversion Activities in Arunachal Pradesh

In Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in the districts of Tirap and Changlang, there is an intensified movement of conversion to Christianity. The Church's efforts aim to include these districts in the proposed Greater Nagaland. Innocent tribal populations are being lured or threatened into conversion, a practice that needs to be urgently addressed and curtailed.

Historical Context and Church Involvement

The demand for Greater Nagaland is not just a recent development but is rooted in a long history of separatist movements backed by the Church.

Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Bill 1978

The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Bill 1978 was enacted to curb forced conversions and preserve indigenous faiths. However, the Church's resistance to this bill has been evident. In 1999, the Church played a significant role in overthrowing the Gegong Apang ministry, which had supported the bill. The Church's influence continues, with efforts to challenge the bill and redefine the term 'indigenous faith' to include Christianity.

The Role of Militant Organizations

The nexus between the Church and militant organizations is alarming. The Nagaland-based National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) factions, both NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K), have been instrumental in furthering the Church's agenda. These organizations receive support from international Christian bodies and work towards destabilizing the region.

The Two-Nation Theory and the Church's Role

The Church's backing of the separatist movement aligns with a broader conspiracy to divide India along religious lines. The demand for Greater Nagaland is a manifestation of this two-nation theory, aimed at creating a Christian-dominated region. This theory threatens the constitutional and democratic fabric of India, necessitating immediate and decisive action from the administration and political leadership to thwart these communal forces.

Case Studies and Evidence

Tripura and the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT)

In Tripura, the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) has been engaged in an armed struggle to establish a separate Christian country. The forced conversions at gunpoint by NLFT militants, backed by the Baptist Church, highlight the Church's complicity in promoting separatism.

Meghalaya and HNLC

In Meghalaya, the Church has converted a significant portion of the Khasi and Jaintia populations. The Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), a Christian terrorist outfit, agitates for a separate Meghalaya. The Church's influence in these separatist movements is evident, with Christian terrorists targeting those who resist conversion.

International Implications and Historical Parallels

The Church's role in supporting separatist movements is not confined to India. Historical parallels can be drawn from other regions where Christian missionary activities have led to unrest and division.

Indonesia and East Timor

In Indonesia, the Church's support for Christian separatist movements resulted in the creation of East Timor. The Church-backed rebels received international support, leading to Indonesia's fragmentation.

South Africa and the Voodoo Religion

In South Africa, indigenous people practicing the Voodoo religion were persecuted by white missionaries. This historical precedent underscores the Church's longstanding involvement in undermining indigenous faiths and promoting its agenda.

The Need for National Unity and Vigilance

To counter the Church's separatist agenda, it is imperative for Indian society to remain vigilant and united. The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Bill 1978 should be strictly implemented to protect the state's indigenous population from forced conversions. Additionally, a high-powered judicial inquiry should be instituted to investigate the Church's subversive activities in the region.

Conclusion

The support of Nagaland's Church for separatist activities in Northeast India poses a grave threat to the region's stability and national integrity. The demand for Greater Nagaland, the forced conversions, and the Church's collusion with militant organizations are all part of a broader conspiracy to divide India along religious lines. It is the constitutional and democratic duty of the administration and political leadership to act decisively against these forces and safeguard the unity and integrity of the nation. The society at large must also recognize and resist these divisive elements, ensuring that the Northeast remains an integral part of India.