Kohima: Students at Fazl Ali College in Mokokchung picked apart the constitutional reach of Article 371A during a debate on October 3. The Political Science Association organized the event for freshers and third-semester students. Ten speakers split into teams to argue if the provision truly shields Nagaland. Bendangienla led the group in favor of the motion, while Chichanrhomo spearheaded the opposition.
Molo Jamir, President of the Mokokchung District Bar Association, served as the special invitee and critic. He outlined that the article covers Naga religious and social practices, customary laws, and local land rights. Jamir challenged the audience to reconsider the law's limits. He noted that while it prevents the automatic application of federal laws in specific sectors, it does not act as a total shield. Jamir stated, "the provision is more significant than is sometimes assumed, as it creates a constitutional safeguard against the automatic application of Parliamentary laws in four fundamental areas."
The debate featured a comparison between Nagaland and Tripura to show how constitutional arrangements differ. Yongkai Phom moderated the session. Faculty members Dr. E. Benrithung Patton and Dr. Lipokrenla Jamir provided the opening and closing remarks. The department aims to sharpen student public speaking and critical thinking through these exercises.
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