Dimapur, May 30 (MExN): The Central Naga Women Association (CNWA) has reaffirmed its opposition to the granting of indigenous status to the Rongmei tribe in Nagaland and called for the expedited construction of the long-pending Nagaland Foothills Road during a recent tour of Wokha, Zunheboto and Mokokchung districts.
According to a statement, the association held consultative meetings with the apex women bodies of the three Central Naga tribes, focusing on issues related to indigenous rights, identity, development and the preservation of mother tongue languages.
During the deliberations, the participating organisations unanimously adopted a resolution reiterating their collective opposition to the granting of indigenous status to the Rongmei tribe by the state government.
The association stated that it remained committed to safeguarding the historical and indigenous rights of the Naga people and would continue to pursue the matter through democratic and constitutional means.
The women bodies also appealed to the government to expedite construction of the Nagaland Foothills Road, describing the project as vital for public welfare and regional development. They further urged the Nagaland Foothills Road Coordination Committee to closely monitor the work to ensure quality, transparency and timely completion.
Expressing concern over inadequate road connectivity and communication infrastructure, the association said women and rural communities continue to face significant hardships. It noted that women and children are among the worst affected in accessing healthcare, transportation, education and economic opportunities due to poor road conditions.
The consultative meetings also highlighted the need to preserve and promote indigenous languages among younger generations. The association emphasised that mother tongue languages form the foundation of identity, culture and tradition and called upon parents, educational institutions and community leaders to actively encourage their use and teaching.
The CNWA expressed gratitude to the women bodies and community leaders of Wokha, Zunheboto and Mokokchung for their cooperation and support during the tour.
The association also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, unity and cooperation among the three Central Naga tribes, the statement added.
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