Dimapur, Sep. 30 (EMN): Asserting that Rengmas are a distinct tribe with a unique historical identity and rich cultural heritage with its own clearly-demarcated ancestral land, the Rengma Hoho has affirmed to uphold its earlier stand and vigorously pursue for upgrade of Tseminyu sub-division to a district.
The affirmation to this effect was taken during its general meeting held on September 29 at Tseminyu town hall. A Rengma Hoho press release issued jointly by its president, Pollem Tep, and the general secretary, Sinhilo Thongseb, stated that Rengma Naga have always remained steadfast in upholding the Nagas identity and equally contributed sincerely towards the Naga political movement, which eventually resulted in the fruition of Nagaland statehood and beyond.
It, however, lamented that the Rengma tribe, which was among the first five recognised tribes of Nagaland, is still under the administrative unit of Tseminyu sub-division while all the other tribes have attained recognition of having their own districts.
The Rengmas Hoho has reiterated the Rengma people’s genuine aspirations and legitimate right to claim, safeguard and promote its interests and to enjoy equal recognition and privileges of having a district exclusively for the Rengma people. Therefore, basing on justified rationale and the tribe’s unique identity and history, Rengma Hoho requested the state government for the immediate upgrade of Tseminyu sub-division to a district on priority.
