Seng Khasis of Barak Valley commit to protect their identity, culture

Special Correspondent

Silchar: Seng Khasis of Barak Valley who have retained their ancestral faith along with their counterparts of Meghalaya and other parts of northeast have committed themselves to protect it and resist any attempt on them to convert from Sanatan Hindu dharma. This message has gone out from the 5th annual conference Lympung Seng Khasi Seinraij held at Damchara, Srikona, near this town.

The well attended conference of Seng Khasis was addressed by Mrinal Bareh, president, Bulbul Bareh, advisor, Banmali Pasyad, general secretary, Barak Valley unit, K F Laloo, chairman Niamtre committee and Dr Soloni Bareh, D K Dkhar, president Sengkhasi Kmie, Nongklam, Puramon Kynjing, Jowai and Bikash Pohdweng, assistant secretary, Kyntien Makhane.

Bulbul Bareh recounted how the Khasis retaining their ancestral faith and tradition have come under the attempts of missionaries for conversion. They have strongly believed and continue to believe conversion means insult to their forefathers. This tantamount to committing the greatest sin in one’s life. It was in 1813, as Bulbul Bareh said, that Krishna Chandra Paul, a missionary, was sent to Meghalaya by John Kerry from Sreerampore of West Bengal with the sole objective of indoctrinating the simple and innocent tribals. Not all could be induced or motivated. “We the Seng Khasi feel proud to protect our identity and culture,” pointed out Bulbul Bareh.

Apart from the commitment, the speakers addressing the assembly in identical manner laid stress on maintaining good will and good relations among all sections of people irrespective of caste and creed. All have to be respectful to one another’s culture, tradition and religion as well as language. Voice has also been raised against any attempt to distort one’s identity. They have to remain united and work for the progress and development of the country, sinking all differences.

There might be different ways of worship, but the goal for attainment of peace and tranquillity is the same as said by Ramkrishna Paramhansdeb. People have to think first of their motherland and contribute towards its welfare in their own humble way. They should not forget the freedom was achieved after long struggle and bloodshed. All have to be prepared for more sacrifices, the speakers exhorted. The occasion was also to stand up and pay their homage to the CRPF and Army jawans who laid down their lives fighting against the enemies of the country. One minute silence was observed to pay respect to the valiant heroes of motherland. The two day conference which concluded on Monday was enlivened by cultural programme showcasing their traditional songs and dances.

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