MLA Khashim calls for strengthening customary 'Wungpam'
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, March 26 2022:
Chingai MLA Khashim Vashum has encouraged Tangkhul hereditary village chiefs to foster unity among them in order to safeguard the customary 'Wungpam' (chieftainship) and to strengthen the traditional administration in their respective villages.
The call came from the MLA while speaking as chief guest on day two of the on-going 4th Tangkhul Naga Wungnao Long (TNWL) Couples Retreat at Hongmahn village, Saikul block, Kangpokpi district on Saturday.
Notably, this marked Khashim Vashum's first public appearance after being re-elected recently.
He was accompanied by his better half Planning Vashum.
"I urge you all to stay united always.
If anyone of you find that you are holding grudges against your fellows; be it over administration or leadership, it's my earnest appeal to make adjustments and promote solidarity and oneness among you," he told the gathering of village chiefs and their spouses.
He related that the age-old customary 'Wungpam' once used to be a sacred status in the olden days wherein Tangkhul forefathers had effective, traditional forms of leadership and governance in each village.
"Back then, Wungnao (chiefs) were economically well-off and affluent to look after the needs of their people in the villages and were highly regarded.
But today, things have changed and the status of Wungpam/Wungnao seems to be gradually losing its values in the present day," he lamented.
The MLA made a strong case for reviving of the past glory of Wungpam.
He called the headmen as guardians of the customs' and urged them to regenerate the age-old values of traditional chieftainship.
"The values of the customs and traditions handed down to us by our forefathers are too valuable to lose.
We can't afford to play down them at any cost," he said.
He further reminded the congregation of the pivotal role of the history, customs and traditions of the Naga political movement.
"It's because of our rich culture, customs and traditions and history that the Government of India has come to recognise our unique identity," he added.
He also reminded Awungva (wives of chiefs/chieftesses) that they share equal share of responsibilities in strengthening the customary body/administration in each village.
Maintaining that he doesn't only represent his Chingai assembly constituency, Khashim said that he's an MLA for the Tangkhul and Naga community as a whole.
He then assured the village chiefs of his equal concern for all, while stating that he will work for the betterment of each and every village.
As part of the event, a special prayer session led by TNWL ex-president KS Raihing was held for all the newly elected Tangkhul MLAs namely, Khashim Vashum, Ram Muivah and Leishiyo Keishing Earlier, MLA Khashim Vashum also unveiled the monolith of the TNWL Couples Retreat in the presence of TNWL president SA Ramnganing, Hongmahn headman Mathankhui Zimik, Tangkhul Awungva Saklong (TAS) chairperson CH Ngasailei, TNWL general secretary Kaphaoleng Angkang, Hongmahn Baptist Church pastor MK Standhope and chiefs and chieftesses.