Imphal, January 28: The Headman of Hundung Thawaijao Village, the custodian of custom and culture, was impressed by the news items appeared in many local newspapers regarding the Nagaram fine on United Committee, Manipur for the pelting of stones and shouting provocative languages at Nagaram villagers on the night of 16th January 2003 when the UCM had organized a torch place following the rally.

The incident took place taking the advantage of the night rally and the UCM was unable to see and control all the activities committed by some of the emotionally charged rallyists the Headman AS Hungnaoyo Zimik today said in a press statement.

Trying to settle the matter peacefully by following the customary practices of the aggrieved party is of a very high value in a plural society like Manipur.

In my custom, pelting stones on the house of someone, shouting abusive languages on someone means chasing them to the away from that village and challenging the strength and power of the people living there the Headman said.

If the occupants of the house/village respond with similar respond to the ugly actions, very bad things can happen.

It was very good that the Nagaram Villagers did not respond of the attackers the same way they did.

If they did, the situation could have come to very unwanted scene which could lead to involvement of different ethnic groups he further said.

Imposition of customary fine is nothing but the best way to solve any conflict in a peaceful manner by respecting the feelings of both the groups.

It will be wise on the part of the UCM to comply with the demand of Nagaram villagers so that their propaganda and struggle for territorial integrity and peaceful co-existence will be shown in true spirit and in action.