Lotha Eloe Hoho meet deliberates on gender equality

The two-day 9th Lotha Eloe Hoho (LEH) Conference concluded on Wednesday with deliberations on gender equality, social reform and the role of women in strengthening society. Y. Mhonbemo Humtsoe, MLA graced the programme as special guest, while principal judge of Family Courts Dimapur and Kohima, Wonchibeni V. Patton, delivered the theme address on “Achieving Gender Equality in Nagaland.”
Addressing the gathering, Humtsoe called for reform of societal practices and emphasized equal treatment and opportunities for men and women, including fair distribution of wealth between sons and daughters. He urged women to uphold values that strengthen families and communities, describing them as pillars of cohesive societies.
Citing the recent HSLC and HSSLC results of Wokha district, Humtsoe noted that girls had outperformed boys by a significant margin. He congratulated students, parents and stakeholders, acknowledging the sacrifices behind their success, and lauded women’s silent contributions in nurturing achievements. He encouraged women to remain resilient, rise above challenges and continue striving for equality, dignity and collective progress.
Delivering the theme address, Wonchibeni Patton highlighted contradictions between customary practices and Christian values in Naga society. She pointed out that children are often regarded as belonging to the father, with custody in divorce cases usually granted to men, and stressed the emotional toll on children in conflict-ridden homes. She urged society to prioritize children’s well-being and called for fairness and equality within families.
Patton observed that discrimination often begins at home, where women are treated harshly for mistakes while men are more easily forgiven. She called for an end to such biases, advocating equal sharing of property and equal treatment of children regardless of gender.
Extending greetings, CNWA president Dr. Anungla Aier appreciated LEH for its continued support and reaffirmed CNWA’s commitment to the welfare of the three tribes—Lotha, Sema and Ao. She emphasized sisterhood and unity, urging women to raise their voices against entrenched social wrongs and patriarchal mindsets. She noted that Naga women’s voices have long been suppressed and called on them to break the silence, stand firm and speak out for justice, equality and meaningful change.
Gracing the valedictory programme as special guest, Achumbemo Kikon, MLA emphasized the vital role of women in shaping society, beginning within the family. He noted that women influence the lives of their husbands and children, and urged them to be drivers of positive change both at home and in the wider community.
Describing women as sources of strength, wisdom and resilience, he expressed hope that such gatherings would inspire and empower young Lotha girls to excel. He also pointed to the limited presence of Lotha women in the broader Naga landscape, encouraging them to step forward and take on leadership roles.
Acknowledging the male-dominated nature of Naga society, Achumbemo called on women to actively engage in decision-making processes and support one another. Referring to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030, he stressed that gender equality remains a global priority and urged women to take up roles as mentors and educators, noting recent academic successes among girls.
The programme concluded with the dedication of the new LEH team, followed by a prayer led by associate pastor of Wokha Town Baptist Church, Chumbenthung Murry. Thungbeni Ngullie was reappointed president for the 2026–2030 tenure.