The All Nagaland Sumi Aphuyemi Senior Citizens’ Forum (ANSASCF), Pughoboto, has expressed strong reservations over the proposed hosting of Ahuna 2025 at Pughoboto, citing lack of stakeholder consultation, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient preparation time.
In a press release, ANSASCF president G. Zutovi Swu and general secretary Shivito Wotsa stated that the house after proper deliberation and discussion at its general meeting held on October 16 at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur, observed that the announcement of the festival was made abruptly and without prior consultation with senior citizens and other stakeholders of the Sumi Aphuyemi community. As such, the Forum resolved not to support or extend cooperation to the organizers.
Highlighting logistical concerns, the Forum pointed out that road connectivity in several parts of Pughoboto remains poor and cannot be improved within a short timeframe, which would pose serious inconveniences to public participation.
Describing Ahuna as the second most significant cultural heritage of the Sumi community, the Forum emphasized that the festival requires year-long preparation to properly showcase traditional customs and practices. It lamented the lack of adequate time and expressed that hosting such a major event at short notice was impractical.
With utmost restraint, the Forum suggested that the celebration be postponed to next year or any other suitable time in accordance with the wishes of the people of Pughoboto area.
ANSASCF urges postponement of Ahuna 2025
DIMAPUR