Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton has expressed concern over the growing problem of extortion in Dimapur, Niuland and Chümoukedima, while calling for unity among Naga political groups and greater efforts to preserve indigenous culture and languages.
Patton was speaking at the Tokhü Emong celebration organised by the Dimapur Lotha Hoho (DLH) and hosted by him and his family at the Multi-Disciplinary Complex Stadium, Dimapur, on November 7.
Addressing the gathering, Patton said demands for donations were among the major sources of extortion and stressed the need for different groups to come together to address the issue in the interest of the public.
On the Naga political issue, he said the Government of India would not provide separate solutions to the numerous Naga political factions, and called upon the groups to unite and coordinate their efforts towards finding a way forward.
Emphasising the need to preserve Lotha cultural identity, Patton expressed concern that many members of the community, particularly younger people in Dimapur, were unable to speak their mother tongue. He urged parents to take responsibility for teaching the indigenous language to their children at home and encouraged the younger generation to uphold traditional attire, customs and cultural practices.
He also suggested that the Lotha community consider organising a collective Tokhü Emong celebration once every three or four years instead of holding separate celebrations annually. He said such an initiative could strengthen relationships within the community and provide opportunities for people to know one another better. He also urged the community to reciprocate the cooperation extended by other tribes during their respective celebrations.
Describing Tokhü Emong as more than an occasion for feasting and celebration, Patton said it was a time to thank God for good health, protection and the blessing of witnessing another year. He also described the festival as an occasion for reconciliation, forgiveness and reflection, urging people to resolve misunderstandings and work together.
On education, he encouraged students to aim higher and pursue their ambitions through hard work rather than studying merely to obtain academic qualifications. He also cautioned the younger generation against the misuse of mobile phones and called for responsible use of technology.
Speaking as a guest of honour, MLA and Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, H. Tovihoto Ayemi, called for a balance between tribal identity and the larger Naga identity, cautioning that excessive tribalism in politics, employment and social relationships could weaken the collective strength of the Naga people.
He said village, clan and tribal affiliations were important in preserving cultural heritage and providing a sense of belonging, but should not come at the expense of the shared Naga identity.
Ayemi also expressed concern over the gradual erosion of indigenous languages, oral traditions and traditional institutions amid modernisation. He urged parents to speak their mother tongues at home and called for stronger inter-tribal platforms to promote cooperation and mutual understanding.
He further called for a critical evaluation of customary practices, including the removal of regressive practices that hinder social equality and restrict women’s participation in decision-making.
Another guest of honour, MLA and Advisor for Labour and Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer, acknowledged the Lotha community’s contribution to the growth of Dimapur and wider Naga society.
He attributed the community’s achievements to years of hard work, sacrifice and enterprise, particularly highlighting the efforts of Lotha youth who had ventured beyond their homeland to build careers, establish businesses and create opportunities.
Longkumer said the achievements of the community were also a source of pride for the wider Naga society and called for efforts to build a Nagaland where young people could find opportunities and businesses could grow.
The program began with an invocation prayer by Senior Pastor of Lotha AG Church, Dimapur, and AGEI General Superintendent, Rev. Thebemo Yanthan. Dimapur Lotha Hoho Chairman Thungchanthung Murry delivered the presidential address, while the blessing prayer was offered by LBCD Senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Yanbemo Lotha.
A Tokhü song was presented by Vungu Von, followed by a folk dance presented by Dimapur Nkonjan N/Longidang Ekhung. The vote of thanks was delivered by DLEE Chairperson and Tokhu Committee member Mhabeni Humtsoe, followed by the benediction prayer by Rev. Fr. John Nchumbemo Kikon of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Dimapur.
