Our Correspondent
Wokha, Nov 7. (EMN): Former minister and NPF MLA, Imkong L Imchen, on Friday underscored the contribution of the Lotha tribe in the Naga national movement.
Imchen recalled that it was through the initiative of the Lotha Tribal Council (precursor of Lotha Hoho) that the first Naga convention was held at Wokha and resolutions adopted to strengthen the Naga political movement.
Addressing the Tokhu Emong celebration, organised by Lotha Hoho, at Wokha town local ground, the MLA also said that the community took active part in the formation of the Naga Hoho.
He lamented that despite all efforts made to bring Nagas of Nagaland together through the initiative of the Lotha Hoho, the Naga Hoho has presently become “narrowed down” due to divisions among the Naga tribes.
Meanwhile, he said the formation of Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) was a natural phenomenon as all other tribes had their own organisations including the Eastern and Southern Naga tribes.
He also clarified that the CNTC comprising of Ao, Sumi and Lotha tribes has no agenda to discriminate or go against any tribe or groups.
“We act, we think and we perform responsibly so CNTC is the core of Naga,” the NPF leader said, while claiming that the three tribes are lacking behind in terms of development and infrastructure.
The celebration witnessed traditional dance and folk songs presented by WATSU Telongjem Wokha, Wokha Town Phiro cultural organisation and Niroyo Epoe Eramoe Okho, while choir of Wokha Town Baptist Church presented Tokhu song on the occasion.
Earlier, advisor of Lotha Hoho, Wopemo Tsopoe, shared on the history and practices of Lotha ancestors on how and why the community celebrates Tokhu Emong.
Rev. Mhathung Lotha, missionary at large of Kohima Lotha Baptist Church, invoked God’s blessings.
The day’s event ended with tug-of-war completion where Zuvotong Colony emerged as the champions.
Meanwhile, the celebration and Tokhu night carnival culminated with Mhathung Kikon, executive engineer (R&B), Wokha as the valedictory guest.
