Wokha, December 15 (MExN): A Seminar on “Strengthening and Reorientation of Customary Laws and Practices with Special Highlight on Women & Customary Laws Under Article 371-A” was held under the aegis of “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” organized by District Administration Wokha in collaboration with Wokha District Dobhashi Union on December 12. The purpose of the seminar was to sensitize the dynamic nature of customary laws in contemporary society and the need to reinterpret them so as to preserve its essence.
Nlumsao, President, Wokha District Dobhasis Union, chaired the program, while Tumben P Tsanglao welcomed the seminar with an opening remark. DC Wokha, Dr Manazir Jeelani Samoon and ADC Wokha K Mhathung Tsanglao exhorted on the role of Dobhasis as eyes and ears of Administration at all levels of governance and urged them to be sincere and vigilant and reminded them about the ways and means in which they can serve as guardians of customary laws.
C R Lotha, Rtd NCS & Secretary to Government of Nagaland who was the theme Speaker, exhorted the audience on the importance of “context and background” while interpreting and applying customary laws, he emphasized how the principles of natural justice are ingrained in our traditional practices and customary laws and encouraged the Dobhasis to inculcate a sense of justice and fairness while carrying out their responsibilities.
Thungdeno Lotha, Project Director, DRDA Wokha spoke on the relevance of “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” and how our society offers enough space for women folk to be at par with men despite traditional misgivings and how women can utilize that space for their own empowerment, citing examples of women pioneers who have ventured and earned laurels for society.
The other resource persons include Wobemo Shitri and Y Mhonrao, both Rtd PA to DCs who spoke on customary laws and practices on Establishment of Villages, Marriage & Divorce Laws, Crime & Punishment, Land Disputes, Unnatural Death and excommunication. The seminar was attended by Dobhashi (DB) from the various sub-divisions, administrative outposts and district Sadar area, a DIPR report informed.
