Yangkhullen awaits 'Heritage Village' tag promised by CM
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, November 21 2023: Nestled amidst the verdant slopes of Zeme Naga-dominated mountain ranges, Yangkhullen exudes tranquillity in the far north-western corner of Manipur.

In the midst of calm surroundings and revitalising atmosphere, villagers harbour a deep yearning for the government's commitment to declare Yangkhullen as a 'Heritage Village', an assurance given by chief minister N Biren Singh when he visited the village on May 9, 2022 and also the fulfilment of several promises he made for developing this ancient village under Willong sub-division, Senapati district.

Located about 135 km from Imphal and 85 km from Senapati district headquarters, the peaceful village with a population of little over 2500 is far from the heat of unceasing ethnic crisis gripping Manipur.

Yangkhullen is the least populous among Zeme villages in the state, as most reside in Tamenglong district, As per accounts given by tribal elders, the collective population of Zemes in Manipur is around 15,000."Though Rs 3 crore was allocated through the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (Do-NER) for preserving our heritage, regrettably, no tangible progress has been made so far," lamented the village authorities.

CM N Biren's visit to the village last year sparked hope as he acknowledged the village's allure, vowing to push the central government for declaration of Ze-Mnui (Yangkhullen) village as a 'Heritage Village'.

He assured comprehensive support and even promised aid from the Archaeology Department for preservation efforts.

The CM had expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of substantial progress despite the substantial fund allocation.

Consequently, he directed the deputy commissioner of Senapati to compile a comprehensive report on the matter and cautioned of repercussions for any misuse of funds.

"We've pleaded for essential facilities such as setting up of a police outpost, improvement of roads, water supply projects and upgrade of our primary health centre to a community health centre," said Hezeteing Zeme (43), the village chief, while recounting the villagers' demands highlighted in a memorandum submitted to the CM.

Despite assurances from the CM, a year has passed without visible steps taken to fulfil these assurances, leaving the villagers disheartened.

"We are eagerly awaiting translation of our CM's assurances into action," said Hezeteing on Tuesday with a tinge of disappointment.

The village chief, responsible for settling internal disputes in accordance with tradition, lamented that financial constraints is preventing him from proper maintenance of his symbolic traditional house, a repository of Zeme culture, artefacts and historical items.

"Due to the growing size of my family, we had to construct a new extension in the front without adhering to our traditional norms, owing to financial constraints," he explained.

Being the 9th chief of Yangkhullen, Hezeteing is the custodian of an assortment of Zeme tribe artefacts - traditional pottery, furniture, garments, ornaments, weapons and a peace treaty spear presented by the neighbouring Maram Naga village, all housed and preserved in his residence.

Among these treasures is a colossal rice beer brewing vessel carved from a single massive log, close to 500 Mithun horns and several deer skulls.

Regarding the spear s significance, the chief recounted a history marred by frequent conflicts between the Zeme and Maram tribes.

Faced with escalating Violence, animosity and hostility, both sides resolved to cease hostilities.

In 1976, the chiefs and authorities from both villages convened a meeting, solidifying an enduring peace pact symbolised by the mutual exchange of the spear�a poignant gesture marking the end of strife.

"The exchange of a spear symbolised a historic peace treaty between Zeme and Maram tribes, ending years of animosity," recounted the chief, while highlighting the village's rich history and heritage.

Preserving their indigenous religion, 'Paupai Renet,' centred around worshiping their deity 'Tingrangfi,' remains a priority for a few families, including Hezeteing's, amidst the increasing sway of Christianity among villagers.

The influence of Christianity has permeated the hill districts, enveloping nearly all indigenous tribes, save for a few, including our Zeme community in this village," the chief shared.

"Presently, out of the 450 Zeme households here, approximately 386 have embraced Christianity, while the remaining 64, including my own, steadfastly adhere to our traditional faith, Paupai Renet," he explained.

"I am committed to perpetuating our heritage, identity, cultural legacy and the age-old customary practices passeddown by our ancestors.

1 will steadfastly uphold my indigenous religion for eternity," affirmed the Zeme chief.

"Despite attracting tourists, researchers and filmmakers, our village remains neglected," Hezeteing remarked, while pointing out the disparity between promises and visible development, citing the urgent need for action.

"It is quite disheartening to see our village remaining in shambles," Hezeteing said.

"Except for setting up five guest houses, a mobile tower and a Zeme museum, there has been no visible sign of development in our village and surrounding areas," ne pointed out.

"We fervently implore the state government to implement essential measures, securing the Heritage Village' designation for Yangkhullen, as promised by the CM N Biren.

Additionally, we urge the government to initiate various developmental programmes for our village, " Hezeteing conveyed.

(Courtesy: Waari Singbul Network) .

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