ABSTRACT
For 15 years (to jump somewhat in the sequential story of Khonoma) the Nagas were left to themselves. Sir Cecil Beadon, the Lieutenant-Governor in Calcutta, however, finally became 'convinced that a policy of masterly inactivity in dealing with a savage tract lying in the midst of our settled districts is no policy at all - but a specious synonym for neglect of duty.' He therefore instructed the Chief Commissioner in Assam to 'enter boldly on the work of Civilizing the hillmen. .. and bring their chiefs into stipendiary police relations to ourselves.'
