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Neiphiu Rio[/caption]
Eastern Mirror Desk
Dimapur, Nov. 5: Following opposition from Naga frontal organisations to the attempt by National Institute of Fashion Technology (Nift) Kolkata, to register Naga traditional crafts under Geographical Indication (GI) Act, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has requested Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani “to issue necessary directions to the concerned to not issue any patents to anyone other than Naga tribal bodies for the designs and patterns of costumes, attires and handicrafts of Nagaland.”
In a letter dated Nov. 3, Rio told Irani: “As you might be aware all Naga tribes are known for their distinct designs and patterns for their shawls, attire and costumes which is an integral part of Naga customs and traditions. Most of the designs and patterns have cultural and historical connotations. The protocol and practice with regard to who can wear which costumes as also the way of draping the shawls has also been laid down as per the customary traditions and practices.”
“Most of the tribal hohos and organisations have applied for patenting the unique designs and patterns of the attires and costumes. However, it is learnt that Regional Director, North East Region, Office of Development Commissioner, Handicrafts under Ministry of Textiles has also applied for the same patents.”
He requested that the development commissioner facilitate the Naga tribe bodies to get “patents for the designs that rightfully belong to them and not take away what has been the cultural and intellectual property of Nagas since time immemorial.”
It may be mentioned that Nift Kolkata is in the process of registering the traditional crafts of the Northeastern states under the GI Act. According to Nift director Bibekananda Banerjee, the institute has identified 18 crafts, including the Naga shawl, bamboo and cane and bell-metal products to be filed under the GI Act.
In October last, the Naga Hoho, Naga Mother’s Association and other tribe hohos had opposed this move by the Nift. The assembly secretary of the Naga Hoho on Oct. 25 told Eastern Mirror that the Naga people cannot accept the action of the Nift. Prior and proper confirmation should be obtained before making such claims, he added