Morung Express News
Mokokchung | August 23
A book on Ao customary law and practices titled “Aor Temzung Ozüng” published by the Mokokchung District Dobashi was formally released by Prof Sangyu Yaden, former Ao Senden president at the District Dobashi Customary Law Court here today.
Dobashis from all over Mokokchung district and also the officials of the Ao Senden attended the book release function. Prof Sangyu Yaden, while congratulating the Mokokchung Dobashis for the successful publication of the book, termed the publication of the book as “magnificent spectacular achievement by the Dobashis and the Aos as a whole.” He said that the Bristishers had observed the Naga customary laws as good practices and even India has accepted the Naga customary laws because of which it was safeguarded by the Article 371 (A) of the constitution.
Pointing out that Mokokchung District Dobashis celebrating 125 years of existence was a great feat, Prof Sangyu said the publication of the book was another great achievement. He expressed hope that the documentation of the customary laws will help and strengthen the district administration through the proper usage of the age-old and noble customary practices of the forefathers.
Ao Senden president, Imolemba, while exhorting the Dobashis, lauded them for their wise decision to document the Ao customary law and practices and asserted that it will greatly help the future generation. He urged the Dobashis to willingly interpret the laws to those who come to them for interpretation so that everyone would understand the laws and practices.
PA to DC Mokokchung, Temsumeren (DB), while giving a brief highlight of the book, said that the institution of Dobashis was started by the Britishers in 1889 and the Dobashis have been assisting the administration in the dispensation of justice and also in other fields too. However, all the customary laws and practices were handed down orally and it was not in written form. Therefore, while celebrating the 125 anniversary in 2014, a resolution was adopted to document the same. Thus, after close consultation with the Ao Senden, it was approved to bring out the book, said Temsumeren DB. He also said that in this 21st century, with most of the youngsters living in towns and cities, there was a great danger that the present and future generation will forget the customary law and practices of the forefathers. He therefore said that the book was published with an aim of preserving the rich customary practices of the forefathers. The PA to DC, Mokokchung also urged the people to appreciate the noble works of the Mokokchung District Dobashis and at the same time said that rectifications, if any, will be done in the next editions of the book.
The MTBA Associate Pastor, P Toshi dedicated the book and district Head DB Chubatoshi welcomed the audience. The programme was chaired by Limanungsang DB, while another PA to DC Mokokchung, Zulunungsang delivered the vote of thanks.
The 62 page book, written in the Ao vernacular language, is priced at Rs 150.
