Rongkhim dispute prompts Yimkhiung non-participation in NBCC meet

DIMAPUR — The Yimkhiung Baptist Borü Amukhung (YBBA) has conveyed its decision not to send Yimkhiung delegates to the 89th Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) annual general meeting, scheduled to be held at Tuensang town from February 5 to 8, 2026, citing “recent developments concerning the Yimkhiung traditional shawl (Rongkhim–Rehükih Khim).”

In a letter addressed to the NBCC, the YBBA stated that the issue of ownership of the Rongkhim shawl—earlier disputed by the Chang tribe—was officially settled by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) through an order dated September 13, 2025.

Quoting the ENPO order, the letter stated: “The general evidence of the Rongkhim shawl worn commonly by the menfolk of the Yimkhiung tribe establishes that the Rongkhim shawl is officially recognised for the Yimkhiung tribe. Accordingly, the ENPO hereby declares and recognises Rongkhim as the common shawl of the Yimkhiung Naga tribe.”

However, the YBBA alleged that despite the ENPO order, Chang tribal leaders continue to claim ownership of the Rongkhim shawl and persist in wearing the Yimkhiung traditional shawl while displaying sophisticated arms during the Poanglüm Festival.

“In light of these incidents, the Yimkhiung community finds no peace to participate in any programme held in Tuensang town. Consequently, the Yimkhiung Tribal Council, through its order dated January 18, 2026, has directed non-participation of Yimkhiung members in any event organised in Tuensang town where Yimkhiung culture and tradition are disrespected or infringed upon,” the letter stated.

Citing this directive, the YBBA conveyed its regret and informed the NBCC that Yimkhiung delegates will not participate in the upcoming NBCC’s AGM to be held in Tuensang.