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(21) It must have been very shortly after the date of Mr. Damant's report above quoted that clouds began to arise on the fair horizon of Angami politics. The village of Konoma, strongest and most warlike of the communities, showed signs of dissatisfaction with the existing state of affairs; and whatever might be the attitude of Konoma, it was sure to be imitated by the majority of the tribe. So great was the influence which this village had acquired from the number and savagery of its warriors, and their superior armament, that all other communities seem to have unresistingly submitted to almost any bullying from their powerful and dreaded neighbour. The destruction of Mozima by Captain Brydon's expedition had also weakened a formidable rival; and no doubt the escape of Konoma, and its ally Jotsoma, from punishment on that occasion, had contributed to strengthen a feeling of confidence, among the more warlike clans, in their ability to resist a power not yet acknowleged to be paramount. |
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The presence of a force at Kohima was now an established fact, and the Angamis were beginning to understand that this not only entailed the suppression of blood feuds,raiding, and head- getting, pursuits most dear to the Naga mind, but also the payment of tribute and frequent supply of labour to the authorities. Under these circumstances, the most warlike of the villages began to work themselves up to strike a blow for their independence. Konoma and Jotsoma were no doubt the leaders; but the feeling of disaffection spread widely, and even Kohima, though overawed by the troops, shared in the growing spirit of hostility. Of its seven khels, one was doubtful, and one, the Chitonoma Khel, almost openly inimical. The latter had been fined Rs. 690 for an attack on Mozima previous to the occupation, and was known to nourish very active sentiments of enmity and revenge. |
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It may here be noted that the men of Mozima punished by Captain Brydon two years previously, not only abstained from joining the combination against us, but even afforded some assistance during the subsequent operations. |
