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Forest Act should be rejected: Dr. Shürho

Staff Reporter

SAYS AMENDED ACT GOES AGAINST UNIQUE NAGA LAND OWNERSHIP

Veteran regional politician, former chief minister and President of NPF Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu has reaffirmed his party’s stand in rejecting the Forest Conservation Amendment 2023 adding that it was totally unacceptable to the Nagas.


Speaking on the sidelines of the fresher’s meet cum cultural event organized by Tenyimi Students Union Dimapur (TSUD) at Bundrock Hall Patkai Christian College (PCC) on Saturday, Dr. Shürhozelie therefore, called for passing of a resolution by the Nagaland Legislative Assembly for opposing the amended Act.


He also expressed concern that the Act would undermine the unique land ownership system of the state while highlighting the distinctive nature of land ownership system in Nagaland. He reiterated the provisions of the Act were not suitable for the region.


Further Dr. Shürhozelie argued that even if the Act were to be enforced, it would likely lead to significant problems within Nagaland. He therefore called for outright rejection of the Act by the Nagas without delving into its merits and demerits.


The NPF president also emphasized on land as a vital asset among Nagas and any infringement on their rights would not be tolerated. Dr. Shürhozelie said he was certain that Nagas would resist any attempt to undermine their land rights. “For the Nagas, this is a very dangerous law. But Nagas will never yield even in the long run. That much I know”, added Dr. Shürhozelie.


Dr. Shürhozelie said that though the Lok Sabha had recently passed the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act 2023, even the previous Forest Conservation Act, 1980 was not effective in Nagaland.


Earlier, in his speech at the programme, under the topic “Preserving & Enhancing Culture through Education”, Dr. Shürhozelie underscored the significance of culture, encompassing language, beliefs, customs, and ceremonies, in shaping society. He also emphasized the importance of language as a medium of communication that fosters unity and understanding among people.


Dr. Shürhozelie, who is also the president of Ura Academy, acknowledged the irony of delivering his speech in English to a gathering of Tenyimi individuals and wondered why students were embracing foreign languages and neglecting their own native tongue, Tenyidie.


Reflecting on Tenyidie and its historical evolution over the past five decades, Dr. Shürhozelie emphasized on the objectives of Ura Academy, which primarily focuses on the development of Tenyidie language and various aspects of Tenyimia life.


He also informed the gathering that Ura Academy has already applied for inclusion of Tenyidie language under the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution and expressed the hope that Government of India would take up the matter at the right time.


Dr. Shürhozelie was particularly harsh with Nagamese and how it has encroached into indigenous languages. He cautioned against rapid adoption of Nagamese, which could potentially erode the rich linguistic diversity of Nagaland within a few decades.
“We must caution our Naga brethren with the danger looming around so that they do not regret tomorrow,” he stated.


In his concluding remarks, Dr. Shürhozelie called upon the Tenyimia community to play an active role in preserving their heritage and contribute in cosmopolitan towns like Dimapur and Chümoukedima and also to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.


Short speeches were also delivered by Tenyimi People’s Organization president Timikha Koza and Tenyimi Union Dimapur president Vekhosayi Nyekha.


Earlier, the programme was chaired by Nendi Seb, invocation prayer was offered by PCC chaplain Vichüko Ngukha and welcome address by TSUD president Vibozo Tetseo while vote of thanks was delivered by TSUD vice president Sotilo Seb.


Speech on behalf of freshers was delivered by Rüüvono Savino. Highlights of the programmeincluded special number by Elizabeth Khing. The event also witnessed traditional and introduction round of Mr& Miss Tenyimi Fresher 2023.


Meanwhile, winners of the Tenyimi Freshers’ 2023 in male category are– Vizokotuo Suokhrie (winner), Thejaselhou Tetso (1st runner-up) and Kunuhu Venuh (2nd runner-up). In the female category the winner was Kesosin Khing, Menonwiliu Pamai (1st runner up) and Kreyini (2nd runner-up).