Kohima Watsu Telen along with panelists during the discussion held at Molu Ki in Kohima on October 7. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, October 7 (MExN): The Kohima Watsu Telen (Kohima Ao Women Organization) convened a panel discussion under the theme ‘my identity, my responsibility’ at Molu Ki, Kohima on October 7. The panel of experts included Dr Anungla Aier, Retired Director of Higher Education; Dr Aokumla Walling, Assistant Professor, 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.
Senior Advocate CT Jamir recognised the growing acknowledgment of women’s identity and their essential roles in various fields, including policy-making, bureaucracy, and business. He emphasised the rights and laws in place for women’s upliftment and urged the Watsu Telen to stay informed about these rights.
Jamir 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, emphasising equality from the very start, beginning at home.
Dr Anungla Aier, in her address provided valuable insights into the roles and responsibilities of Ao women within the family and society. She emphasised 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, emphasising that one’s identity is 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 perspective, emphasising the pivotal role Ao women play in building and preserving family and cultural identities. She urged women not to 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.
A DIPR report stated that the panel discussion was moderated by Chubasangla Longkumer, with Nukshirenla, President, KWT, delivering the welcoming address. Invocation prayer was offered by KABA Associate Pastor T Rongsenyangla Aier, followed by an engaging question hour after the panel discussion.
