28th Kuki Black Day observed in Dima Hasao district

OUR CORRESPONDENT

HAFLONG: The 28th 'Kuki Black Day' (Kuki Sahnitni) was observed by the Kuki community of Dima Hasao district in Assam in respective local places following COVID-19 protocol on Monday.

The Kukis have been observing September 13 as 'Sahnitni' every year to condole the death of more than nine hundred Kukis in the hands of NSCN (I-M) from 1991 to 1996-97. 108 (one hundred eight) innocent Kukis were murdered in a single day on the fateful day of September 13, 1993. Those 108 persons were villagers of Joupi, Gelnel, and Aimol (Tamei).

The day is mainly observed as 'Condolence Prayer Meet'. The programme at Songpijang was organized by the Songpijang Village Committee as 'Condolence Prayer Meet' in the premises of the G.B of Songpijang.

Speaking on the occasion, the appointed speaker Rev. S. Changsan reminded the gathering how God saved Israelites when Jehoshaphat prayed with total humility. He, therefore, insists all the Kuki community to practice love, peace and mutual understanding. Only then, God, who loved all who seek him, will help the Kuki people.

The programme started with an opening prayer from Rev. David T. Lhouvum, and was followed by presentation of special number by Soloist Miss Vahneichin Hanneng. The speaker also briefly explained the reason behind the yearly observance of September 13 as 'Kuki Black Day'.

He said, "We observe the day not to instil hatred and vengeance, but to mourn and pray for the departed souls; pray Almighty God to comfort their bereaved families. We to pray for our Kuki community, pray for leaders of the country, states and local areas that they may rule and govern well for peace and progress of all communities."

After the sermon, the gathering observed one minute silence in respect for the departed souls. This was followed by mass prayer with all subjects cited earlier and for the culprits involved in those heinous crimes that they may shun violence and work for peace.

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