Indigenous Day observed in CCpur
Source: The Sangai Express

Lamka, August 10, 2012: The World Indigenous Day was observed yesterday at Synod Hall here under the aegis of Zomi Human Rights Foundation with a call for more appreciation on the Indigenous rights.

The observance that came barely a day after the Parbung hearing on Oil exploration has raised severe criticism on undermining the Indigenous Peoples rights in the run-up to the exploration exercise.

General Secretary of the rights body that organized the observance programme, Chinlunthang has asserted that the Oil Exploration initiative was taken up without the free, prior and informed consent of the Indigenous people.

He says the government was undermining the Indigenous Peoples decision making process and laws which protect them.

The highest ranking dignitary, Langkhanpau Guite, Chairman of ADC Churachandpur had as well declared the ADC's resolution in objecting the 'Parbung Public Hearing in toto'.

He has suggested collaborative and intensive efforts to thwart similar exercise that will undermine the people's rights and to as well protect the Indigenous land and natural resources.

About 20 MDCs have also attended the observation.

The Foundation has been observing the International Day for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples since 2004.True to its chosen theme - rumination for our Land and Natural Resources, Siamzading Valte, Chairman ZHRF call on all the Indigenous People to be aware about their rights, preserve their culture and traditional practices and cultivate their rights over land and natural resources which they inherit by birth.

Showcasing of pre-modern and modern traditional dresses which was intended to mark and promote the Culture of the Indigenous Hill tribes has added the much needed colour during the observation.

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