Fr Walter Fernandes, Professor at North Eastern Social Research Centre, Guwahati
Chümoukedima, November 13 (MExN): “True peace transcends the absence of armed conflict; it embodies the creation of a just and harmonious society,” Fr Walter Fernandes, Professor at North Eastern Social Research Centre in Guwahati asserted. He was addressing the session on ‘Developing Peace Process in Manipur’ hosted by North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) at Chümoukedima, Nagaland on November 13.
An update from NEISSR stated that the event, held at the NEISSR Hall, brought together researchers, students, and members of Peace Channel to delve into the imperative question of ‘how’ to foster peace.
Fr Walter Fernandes emphasised the pivotal role that Nagaland and Mizoram must play in initiating the peace process. He stressed that peace is not solely achievable through official political actions but necessitates active involvement from civil societies, researchers and students.
He highlighted the significance of fostering dialogue among diverse communities, such as the Kukis and Nagas, grounded in principles of generosity, unity and justice. He proposed the initiation of a dialogue between the Nagas and Kukis in Manipur, with the Nagas of Nagaland taking the lead, the release added.
Fr Walter Fernandes urged for collective action, expressing confidence that facing the challenges of dialogue with communities in Manipur could pave the way for reconciliation. He envisioned the Nagas engaging with Naga groups in Manipur, and the Mizos dialoguing with the Kukis, fostering a sense of unity. While acknowledging that this process may take time, he stressed the need for a spirit of challenge, generosity, and hope to guide Manipur towards reconciliation, justice, and resource-sharing.
In his concluding remarks, Fr Walter Fernandes urged everyone to come together, discuss actionable steps and not leave the people of Manipur to fend for themselves. He called for initiatives from Nagaland to support our brothers and sisters in Manipur, offering hope, forgiveness, and reconciliation as paths towards a shared future.
