Phek, May 7: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday called upon Nagas to strengthen emotional, social and cultural integration to reinforce unity and contribute towards resolving the long-standing Naga political issue.
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Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio with leaders and members of the Naga Kuotsu Union during the 17th Kuo Descendants Meet and NKU anniversary celebration at Zapami village in Phek district. |
Addressing the 17th Kuo Descendants Meet and the 56th anniversary celebration of the Naga Kuotsu Union (NKU) at Zapami village in Phek district, Rio stressed the importance of preserving Naga identity, customs and traditions while promoting the spirit of “Nagaism.”
The Chief Minister said that while physical integration of Naga-inhabited areas across Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar may take time, emotional and cultural unity among Nagas can strengthen collective identity and the Naga political movement.
“When there is emotional, social and cultural integration, people will respect us, our political issue will be strengthened and solution can come immediately,” Rio said during the gathering.
He urged Nagas to rise above tribalism and individualism and work collectively to build a stronger foundation for future generations. Rio remarked that although the world is rapidly changing under the influence of westernisation and modernisation, Nagas must remain rooted in their traditions and heritage.
“A society that forgets its roots may grow, but it will neither endure nor last,” he said, stressing that preserving identity and history is essential for the survival of the community.
Rio also highlighted constitutional protections available to Nagas, including Article 371(A) and the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, which safeguard Naga customary laws, traditions and land rights.
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Touching on the issue of Naga ancestral remains and artefacts preserved at the Pitt Rivers Museum in the United Kingdom, Rio informed that tribal delegations are working towards initiating the repatriation process of Naga human remains and artefacts kept at the museum.
Earlier during the programme, the Chief Minister unveiled the NKU monolith symbolising unity among Kuotsu descendants from the Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang communities and also released the silver jubilee souvenir of Aphou-Khrori (Kuotsu), Zapami village.
NKU president Peter Kuotsu informed that the Kuotsu clan is spread across 89 villages in Nagaland, Assam and Manipur and reiterated the union’s commitment to maintaining unity among descendants residing in different regions.
The programme also featured felicitation of 12 achievers from the Kuotsu community for excellence in academics, science, public service, cinema and other fields. Cultural performances were presented by the Punglwa Cultural Troupe and Kuzha Culture Society during the event.
