ITANAGAR, Nov 14: The Cultural and Literary Society of Mishmi (CALSOM) marked its 35th foundation day at Matengliang in Anjaw district on November 12, with a call for reforming outdated social practices and addressing issues affecting the community.
The celebration was held alongside the society's general body meeting, during which the draft first amendment to CALSOM's bye-laws was placed and adopted.
The programme began with the unfurling of the CALSOM flag by Dr Mohesh Chai, Tezu-Sunpura MLA and patron of the Society. The gathering also paid floral tributes to the founding chairman and secretary of CALSOM, late Sorum Pul and late KK Lum Pul.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Chai called for reforming social practices in keeping with changing times and the needs of society.
CALSOM chairman Sokhep Kri highlighted a recent Supreme Court judgment in Chinthada Anand vs State of Andhra Pradesh concerning the rights of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. He also deliberated on the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, 1978, and its penal provisions.
The general body meeting discussed several social issues, including the need to eradicate outdated practices, excessive fines, the use of copper and brass utensils, serving smoked meat and Indian-made foreign liquor during pujas, and reforms in traditional rituals.
Other issues deliberated upon included polygamy, widow remarriage and women's property rights.
As part of the programme, six village council members (Pharai K?thai) were felicitated in recognition of their contributions to society, particularly their role in resolving disputes and settling cases.
Two books were also released on the occasion: Namshang: A Ritual for Spiritual Vicinity of Kaman-Taraon Mishmis, authored by Dr Sodyong Kri, and Collection of Kaman Mishmi Etiquettes and Idioms, written by Somodang Tawsik.
The celebration was attended by Anjaw Zilla Parishad Chairperson Chenumlu Mitti Khamblai, former minister Nakul Chai, Zilla Parishad Members of Lohit and Anjaw districts, and senior social leaders, including Sotai Kri, Er Lupalum Kri and Soplan Manyu.