Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 31:
It is democracy at work at its purest form and the event that we are talking of is the customary Phamka ritual ceremony of installation and blessing of the newly elected chief of Lambung village of Chandel district.
Like in the City-States of the ancient Greece where democracy was practised in its true sense with full participation of all the people in every affair of the State, Sengul Wolhnem was coronated as the new chief of Lambung village with the mutual consent of all th people of the village during a function held at its community hall on January 30 .
Unlike in some tribal societies, where chiefship is hereditary, in Lambung, a village of Anal tribe, election is held to elect a chief for a fixed tenure.
During his tenure the chief is expected to look after the welfare of the entire village as its anointed leader and to resign voluntarily from the post in case he fails to live up to the expectation of the people SDO/BDO Chandel Jacintha Lazarus, principal of United College, Lambung Th Oliver Monsang and president of Anal Naga Taangpi Ts Warngam graced the function as chief guest, guest of honour and administrator respectively.
The function commenced with the welcome address delivered by Assistant Chief SR Kohlung.
Addressing the gathering after being crowned as the new chief by the outgoing chief ST Robin/Babi Pati and blessed by Local pastor ST Ngamrung, the newly elected village chief Sengul Wolh nem pledged to work for the welfare of his villagers and the development of his village at his level best.
He also sought the co-operation and support of all the people in accelerating the pace of development of the village.
In her address as chief guest of the function, SDO/BDO Chandel Jacintha Lazarus observed that appointment as leader of a group is attached with lot of responsibilities that should be carried out with single minded dedication.
Principal of United College, Lambung Oliver Monsang who graced the function as administration appreciated Lambung Village Authority for preservation of the Anal custom of Phamka installation and said it is a living testimony of the real democracy at work.
He also quoted the saying of Mahatma Gandhi in this regard.
The Anal custom of Phamka came into full light when the married sisters of the newly elected chief arrived carrying eateries and cakes made of chicken and Chahou as present for their brother who along with his wife welcomed them with customary dance.
The sisters also participated dance much to the delight of the whole villagers who were gathered at the occasion.
Dr Rd Larhing, the grandson of the newly elected chief gave the vote of thanks of the function which came to an end with closing prayer by Deacon LH Lumhring.