Discourse on tribal rights marks ANSAM meet
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik
Ukhrul, April 01 2015 :
A discourse on contemporary tribal rights vis-a-vis the rights of Manipur Nagas marked the XIth ANSAM general conference.
The discourse was held with thematic presentation by three panelists �Dr Tuisem Shimrah, Dr Joseph Khuba and Armstrong Pame, IAS on different topics including land, resources, development, inherent rights and political aspiration, and educational rights.
Dr Tuisem Shimrah, Asst Prof of GGSIP University, New Delhi said that land is viewed as living entity in contrast to all other resources.
Land occupies sacred position in the tribal society.
The Tangkhuls believe in superiority of land over mankind.
He also said that land is worshipped by tribal communities.
The majority community and the State Government on the pretext of development in tribal areas is trying to suppress or exploit minority communities by enacting various Acts related to forest or land reform, he pointed out.
Another threat is cultural assimilation through popular media which has immense impact and influence on tribal culture.
He also stressed the role of civil society organizations like ANSAM and other bodies to safeguard the rights.
The second panelist, Dr Joseph Khuba, Regional Director IGNOU- Arunachal Pradesh made a clear statement on various aspects of Nagas political settlement.
He stressed the need for unified Nagas convention to raise the voice of the common aspiration.
The present Naga society got polluted with pouring of hard cash, which made them forget the inalienable inherent rights.
He mentioned that North East region as a geostragetic area because most of the States have shared a boundaries with other countries.
Armstrong Pame, the third panelist emphasised on the right guaranteed under Right to Education (RTE).
He elaborated on the equal responsibilities and duties of parents and Government.