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Dimapur, Oct. 15 (EMN): Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister, Y Patton, on Saturday called on the student community to come together and denounce ‘tribalism and clanism’, which he said were destroying the fabric of Naga society.
He opined that tribalism and clanism had no place in the 21st century.
“Clan system was used for the convenience of inter-marriage by the forefathers and therefore should not be used for creating division,” he said while citing the existence of clanism in student body elections and higher levels as well.
Patton said this at the Dimapur Lotha Students’ Union (DLSU) golden jubilee celebration at Dimapur Government College auditorium on Saturday.
He appealed to every section of society, especially the Lotha community, to not give space to anyone propagating clanism as it hampers growth and unity.
‘Lothas have 24 clans but I am a leader of all clans and not just one particular clan. I am also not into ism-politics,’ he said.
He stated that students have a role to play in various social and religious issues, adding that the present Baptist church issue must be resolved with the involvement of students.
‘Politicians are also missionary workers and a true politician serves the people- for their interests and welfare,’ he asserted.
‘Preserve mother tongue’
He further urged the student community to preserve culture by giving importance to the usage of mother tongue. He lamented cultural traditions quickly losing significance in urban areas, and therefore called on the students to make it a point to use it at home as the medium of communication.
“Parents should also ensure that their children use their mother tongue at home,” he said.
Recalling the foundation of DLSU by a handful of students with late Renbo Lotha, son of late Nyamo Lotha as its first president, Patton called upon all to know the history and ensure that the vision and objectives of the founding leaders are upheld.
During the occasion, the deputy CM also released the jubilee souvenir and unveiled the jubilee monolith, which was dedicated by Rev. Zanao Mozhüi, Pastor of Lotha Baptist Church Dimapur.
Former Principal of Eastern Theological College, Jorhat, Rev. Dr. Ezamo Murry, who spoke on the theme, “envision radiant posterity”, reminded the students on right usage and meaning of vernacular language.
Lotha Hoho Dimapur Chairman, Y L Jami, and Lotha Students’ Union Wokha, president, Ashanthung Humtsoe also delivered jubilee greetings.
A dedicatory prayer for the students was offered by Rev. R P Murry and a minute of silence observed as a mark of respect to the past leaders.
The invocation was done by the principal of Holy Cross Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, Rev. Fr. Philip Yanpvuthung and welcome address by convenor of jubilee organising committee, K Mhachio Odyuo, while presidential address was delivered by DLSU president, Benthungo Jungio.