New Delhi, October 30 (MExN): The Naga Scholars Association (NSA) held a panel discussion on the theme ‘Ethnic Conflicts in Manipur: Issues and Challenges’ on October 26 at the School of International Studies (SIS), JNU, New Delhi. The panelists were Dr Tuisem Ngakang and Dr Khole Timothy Poumai and the discussion was chaired by Prof Yaruingam Awungshi. The President of NSA Dr Zuchamo Yanthan while welcoming the participants categorically stated that it is time that the Naga scholars address the issue of ethnic conflict and its challenges in Manipur. The panel was the first of a series planned on 'Naga-Kuki Conflict' to get deeper insight on the conflict and to provide rationale to address the challenges in the contemporary context, a press release informed. The discussion focused on the genesis of the conflict, nature of the conflict, and the major incidents.While so many incidents have taken place between the Nagas and the Kukis in the past one such incident was the ethnic clash from 1992-1997 which caused a huge casualty to both the Nagas and the Kukis with hundreds of people dead, hundreds of houses burnt and massive displacement of villagers. The gathering took note of the Kuki observation of ‘Sahnit’ (Kuki Black Day) and stated it was “painting a lopsided picture” by the Kuki playing the victim card of the whole episode. Dr Tuisem stressed that it is more important to focus on building stronger relationship rather than considering the other as a threat. This is for the fact that Nagas and Kukis will always live as neighbours. He opined that both communities can offer many good things to one another. Prof Yaruingam Awungshi, the chair, concluded by submitting that the Nagas and Kukis should learn to live as good neighbours by reflecting on the South African experience where truth and reconciliation went hand in hand. The General Secretary of NSA Dr Lungthuiyang Riamei pronounced the vote of thanks and the rapporteurs of the discussion were Lung Nuthan and Dr Aton Mungleng.
