Lothas, Sumis strengthen bonds through community fishing

WOKHA — The Tsungiki-Philimi community fishing event brought together people from 18 villages belonging to the Sumi and Lotha communities on Friday. This longstanding tradition of community fishing has been practiced for the past 24 years as a way of strengthening brotherhood between the two communities.

In attendance were several ministers and legislators, including Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Tovihoto Ayemi, Kazheto Kinimi, Mhathung Yanthan, S. Kiusumew Yimchunger, Picto Shohe, Dr. Neisatuo Mero, YM Humtsoe, Dr. Sukhato and Hekani Jakhalu.

During the event, people from the two communities gather at the river and pound on bundles of piscicidal tree barks and roots (poisonous to fish) placed on logs or rocks in the flowing river, creating foam.

The fish that float due to intoxication are collected and cooked for a feast, signifying unity and brotherhood.

Addressing the gathering during a brief programme at the Doyang River, near Coco Bridge, Patton termed the age-old tradition of community fishing as a means to strengthen relationships between the Sumi and Lotha communities. He encouraged the continuation of this practice and urged other communities in Nagaland to foster cordial relationships for peace and prosperity.

He also took the opportunity to endorse the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) consensus candidate for the lone Lok Sabha seat in the state, Dr. Chumben Murry, stating that he is a suitable representative of the people.

He went on to state that a candidate from the Lotha community is contesting in the parliamentary election for the first time since Nagaland attained statehood in 1963.

Also speaking at the event, the first women minister of Nagaland, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, lauded the event for promoting friendship between the two communities. She said that all Naga communities should have such cordial relationships so that they can grow and progress together.

She also urged the communities to vote for the PDA candidate in the interest of Nagas.

The programme included speeches by Vikikhe Assumi, Head GB of Philimi Village Council (PVC), and Janthungo Kikon, chairman of Tsungiki Village Council (TVC), with a vote of thanks delivered by Hakiye Assumi, GB Doyang Union Chairman.

The event was chaired by E Chenithung Kikon, community secretary of TVC, with an invocation prayer led by Vikashe Ziho, pastor Philimi Baptist Church.