NSF reaffirms resolution on Naga blood-samples & Human Genome studies
Dimapur, July 11 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has strongly reaffirmed its resolution for censure and condemnation of what the Federation termed as “resurgence” of collection of blood samples from Naga citizens by the Research & Development Initiatives (RDI) and the implied covert Human Genome projects being taken (The Morung Express, May 18). The NSF has, to this effect, directed all federating units and subordinate bodies to maintain vigil in their respective jurisdictions on the stated matter.
“Blood is a serious subject to every nation. Blood is a serious subject to the Nagas too. To the Nagas, parting our blood is a more serious subject matter due to the reason best known to the Nagas” an NSF statement from Phushika Awomi, president and WH Maring, Speaker stated. The NSF in this regard reminded that it had passed a resolution banning the collection of blood samples of Nagas as well as the Human genome project in the state in 2001-2003. The Federation has reaffirmed the same stand in its resolution during its 3rd Federal Assembly, 2005-2007 held June 22 at Mao gate. The resolution was passed unanimously by the august house the NSF reminded. The resolution reads thus:
“…the NSF Executive Council informed the august house about a project taken up by one RDI (Research & Development Initiative), Delhi, where the said firm was collecting blood samples of Nagas on certain pretext. Engulfed with deep apprehensions over the collection of blood samples, the house seriously discussed the matter during which Mr Mhonlumo Kikon, Executive, NPMHR (Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights) who had earlier attended seminars/workshops on Human Genome studies enlightened the august house on the risks of giving blood samples in line with United Nations’ Declaration on Human Genome Studies and related matters. Mr Achumbemo Kikon, Tribunal General, NSF also correlated the issues with collective/community rights and individual rights and the peoples’ responsibilities while enjoying these rights.
“After much deliberation and discussion over the matter, the august house was convinced of the probable and impending threat to the Nagas in the long run in case the blood samples of the Nagas are allowed to be collected and in others’ possession. Therefore, the house once again traced back the resolution passed in tenure 2001-2003 and reaffirmed the resolution, which stops all activities and projects relating to Human Genome studies and collection of blood samples. The house also endorsed all the units and subordinate bodies to keep vigil in their respective jurisdiction on the matter”
“Therefore the NSF wants every individual, authorities (governmental and non-governmental), organizations etc., to respect the resolution that carries the common will and wisdom in order to prevent germination of room for misunderstanding” the Federation stated.
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