Dimapur, February 11 (MExN): The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) and All Sumi Students' Union (SKK) today asserted that while the duo had demanded the retraction of MLA & Advisor School Education/SCERT Kekhrie Yhome’s February 6 statement, his “reluctance and unwillingness to accept the outrage causes is clearly understood in the bombastic language defensive sentences of his rather Justification Statement’.”
The statement titled “Issued in the Interest of Public Safety” by the Advisor on February 16, has "raised grave concerns and sparked outrage within the community, particularly among the Ao and Sumi tribes of Nagaland," asserted a joint clarification issued by AKM President Lanutoshi Aier and SKK President Gihuka K Zhimo.
As representatives of the AKM and SKK, we seek immediate “clarification on the true meaning behind Dr Yhome's assertion,” it said, adding:“Does the statement insinuate that Ao and Sumis are unsafe, or does it suggest that they pose a threat to the Nagas?”
While acknowledging the complexities surrounding employment policies and the need for inclusive education, the two presidents argued that the language employed in Dr Yhome's statement is deeply troubling.
“The suggestion that Ao and Sumis may not find employment opportunities for the next decade or so is not only disheartening but also carries undertones of discrimination and bias,” it added.
The clarification also condemned the use of such language and rhetoric, especially coming from a legislator entrusted with the responsibility to lead and uphold the interests of all Nagas.
The derogatory tone and implications of the statement are unacceptable and do not reflect the values of our society,” it added, demanding its “immediate retraction.”
Failure to do so will result in the initiation of appropriate actions by the unions, for which the Advisor will be held solely accountable, it cautioned.
Furthermore, the AKM and SKK appeal;ed to the Ao Senden and Sumi Hoho to stand in solidarity with their respective communities by refraining from attending any government events until the matter reaches a logical resolution.
The unions further expressed sadness that the Department, which looks after students’ education and future, is under the "Advisor-ship of a person who lacks emotional intelligence," and such an attitude will only negate the brotherhood amongst the people and contribute towards a chaotic state.
