Kohima Watsu Telen (Kohima Ao Women Organization) convened a panel discussion under the theme “My Identity, My Responsibility” on October 7 at Molu Ki, Kohima. The event featured a distinguished panel of experts including Dr. Anungla Aier, retired director of Higher Education; Dr. Aokumla Walling, assistant professor in the department of History & Archaeology at NU; Toshi O Longkumer, advocate at the Guwahati High Court Kohima Bench; and CT Jamir, senior advocate at the Guwahati High Court Kohima Bench.
Dr. Anungla Aier, in her address, provided valuable insights into the roles and responsibilities of Ao women within the family and society. She emphasized the collective responsibility that strengthens the societal fabric and highlighted Ao women’s vital role as pillars in the foundation of society, clans, and families. Dr. Aier stressed the importance of preserving cultural identity and tradition, emphasizing that one’s identity was rooted in the family. She encouraged Ao women to lead efforts in preserving their identity, culture, and traditions while being open to adapting to contemporary contexts without losing their roots.
Dr. Aokumla Walling echoed Dr. Aier’s sentiments, emphasizing the pivotal role Ao women play in building and preserving family and cultural identities.
She urged women to not forget their roots and encouraged active participation in tribal, clan, or family activities, even when married to individuals from different villages or tribes. Dr. Walling also underscored the significance of women supporting each other across various fields and sharing knowledge and skills to strengthen their presence in society.
Advocate Toshi O Longkumer provided insights into the constitutional laws and legal rights that protect women in society. He highlighted the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and stressed the importance of women’s empowerment and protection of their identity. Toshi called for the evolution of customary practices in line with the contemporary context while preserving identity and roots through a reformation movement rather than a revolutionary one.
Senior Advocate CT Jamir recognized the growing acknowledgment of women’s identity and their essential roles in various fields, including policy-making, bureaucracy, and business. He emphasized the rights and laws in place for women’s upliftment and urged the Watsu Telen to stay informed about these rights. CT Jamir also highlighted the rise of women’s empowerment in alignment with gender equality and called for a change in the mindset regarding the importance of male children, emphasizing equality from the very start, beginning at home.
The panel discussion was moderated by Chubasangla Longkumer, with Nukshirenla, president of KWT, delivering the welcoming address.
The event began with an invocation by associate pastor KABA, T. Rongsenyangla Aier.