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journey back to Mokokchung |
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Khonoma group's anger with the British, Pawsey and the Governor's 'agreement' |
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Today the rain has been drifting down and Nagas from the village have been streaming in to see us. |
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Among the callers was the headmaster of the local Middle English school. He is a Kacha Naga and a leading member of the Khonoma group. To our great surprise, we found him as bitter about the British as the Congress. 'The British', he said, ' were formerly our friends. But now they are with Congress. We could not think that they could be so treacherous.' Even the creation of regional Angami courts to suit local convenience, has become a sinister move designed to facilitate their subjugation by Congress. 'Your Pawsey' he said, 'has split the Nagas and set them all against each other.' He was equally virulent about the Governor's agreement. 'How do we know that they will keep their promises? They will say "It is necessary for the defence of India" and keep to nothing. Independence is the only way.' But like the Nagas in Kohima he was vague and undecided about the Group's future programme. 'Passive resistance' he said. 'The Indian leaders have shown us the way.' 'What form?' 'That is our secret. But you will know (73) about it when we start.' 'Resignation from service?' 'I am waiting for a letter. When it comes I shall go and serve my people.' 'But what can the Nagas do against the Indian army?' 'That is the Nagas' affair,' he answered and relapsed into sullen, sulky silence. |
