Disability in Naga Society: Socio-cultural Perspective and Institutional Dynamics

In most communities, the socio-cultural perception vis-à-vis the Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) defines the overall status and position of PwDs in society. Though there are few cases of glorification of PwDs among some groups, most are negative misconceptions and stereotyping which result in social stigma, discrimination and prejudice against the PwD community. Studies have shown that apart from the infrastructural and physical barriers, socio-cultural barriers in understanding the PwDs have proved to be one of the greatest challenges in creating an inclusive society. Traditionally, most Naga tribes believed that disability in a family is the result of God's retribution or punishment for the sins of the ancestors or parents. Therefore, most of the PwDs are looked down upon with pity from the charity model. However, in recent years, there has been a slow yet increasing awareness and understanding of PwDs and their rights. Yet there is hardly any academic research work done particularly on the socio-cultural perceptions of the PwDs. Therefore, in this chapter, an attempt has been made to study the common socio-cultural perceptions of PwDs among the Nagas. This study is based on the narratives and perspectives of persons with disabilities in Nagaland collated through personal interviews and telephonic interviews with PwDs, their family members, disability rights activists and organizations working on disability issues.