SINCE 1934: Dzulhami, Khughutomi & Kilomi reaffirm long-standing bonds

Morung Express News
Kilomi | January 16

More than a thousand people gathered on January 14 at Kilomi village’s local ground to strengthen the long-standing bonds between the Dzulhami, Khughutomi and Kilomi villages. The event marked the 2nd Community Meet of the Chakhesang and Sümi tribes of the three neighbouring villages, graced by the President of the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) Vezühu Keyho, as the special guest, and the President of Sümi Hoho, Dr Vihuto Assumi, as the guest of honour.

“It is programmes like these that bridge gaps, strengthen relationships, and bring brother tribes together,” Dr Assumi emphasised in his address. He described such gatherings as not mere events, but a powerful symbol of ‘unity, understanding and shared heritage,’ applauding the three villages for their dedication and hospitality in organising this meaningful event.

While congratulating the newly elected team of the CPO, he expressed the Sümi Hoho’s eagerness to foster closer bond with the CPO to ensure harmony and progress for both communities. 

Reflecting on their shared history, he recalled the recent Chakhesang-Sümi Brotherhood Meet held at Pfutsero on November 26, 2024, which reinforced these deep-rooted ties. “Today, this community meet further strengthens this brotherly bond, showing that our friendship and understanding go beyond words and is cemented through shared actions and fellowship,” he maintained.

The peaceful resolution of past disputes such as those between Dzulhami and Kilomi on May 1, 1992; Chepokita and Vishepu on January 12, 1999; Khutsami and Iphonumi on April 19, 2016 stand as remarkable examples of what can be achieved when community leaders intervene with ‘wisdom, patience, and a spirit of reconciliation.’

“As Chakhesang and Sümi tribes, we are not just neighbours, but family. Our shared values, traditions, and aspirations bind us together. The challenges of the modern world require us to stand united, fostering a culture of collaboration, respect, and mutual growth,” he declared. Dr Assumi called on the gathering to embrace this spirit of brotherhood and let the event serve as a reminder that no obstacle is too great when approached with the collective wisdom and strength of the people.

Let this event serve as a beacon of hope for the Chakhesang, Sümi, and all Naga communities as a whole.

“May we continue to honour our forefathers’ legacy of peace, understanding, and cooperation, ensuring that future generations inherit a harmonious and prosperous relationship.”

The President of the CPO, Vezühu Keyho in his address echoed these sentiments. He highlighted the resolution made on May 9, 1998, to resolve all inter-tribal and inter-village disputes between the two tribes.

He noted that there are no longer any land disputes between the Sümi and Dzulhami communities, urging attendees to carry this legacy forward. “Land is not first, our relationship is more important than anything,” he emphasised, quoting the Bible, “Love your neighbour as yourself.”

“This meet has displayed this very act in many ways and this is the testimony we have to carry forward, not only among ourselves, but beyond all Naga tribes,” he noted.

Delivering the welcome address, Otova Swu, Vice-President of Sümi Hoho, recounted the close-knit relationship between the two communities over the years, dating back to 1934, which is just in the threshold of celebrating centenary jubilee.

After 1934, while the political conditions in the state had hindered such gatherings, he held that at the same time the Dzulhami and the Kilomi relationship paved the way for a general concept of the Chakhesang-Sümi brotherhood and closeness.

During 1992, Swu said ‘with God’s intervention,’ the two communities settled their long-standing differences on border issues, and ever since, theyshare a peaceful co-existence.

While today’s meet should have been the third meet, with the first gathering held in 1934, he extended apologies to the visionary ancestors. The community meet held in 2020 at Dzulhami village was taken as the first official meet henceforth.

The Planning Board Chairman, Atomi Swu, expressed gratitude to all the dignitaries for attending the event, and briefed on the inception of the gathering.

Purujo Nyekha, GB of Dzulhami extended greetings on behalf of his village, which has over 4060 households and a population of more than 7000. Despite limited attendance of around 700 today, he urged the Sümi brethren not to feel disheartened.

Acknowledging the significant event, the seasoned community leader said that while differences may arise due to land rights, it should not hamper the relationship. “We should take this gathering to heart,” he said, underscoring the need to inspire stronger sense of brotherhood among younger generations.

The event featured captivating cultural performances by the three villages and saw the attendance of several dignitaries, including former Minister from Dzulhami—Zachilhu Ringa Vadeo, Sümi Totimi Hoho, Sümi Aphuyemi Kukami Hoho, village chiefs, village council chairpersons, and church leaders. Popular Naga artiste, Aloboli Kinimi engaged the gathering with her exceptional vocal performance.