No Sümi name, other privileges for adopted non-Naga child, resolves Sümi Hoho

DIMAPUR — There is no objection to the adoption of Naga children but “if a non-Naga child is adopted, they should not be given a Sümi name, nor should they receive a no-objection certificate for Scheduled Tribe and Indigenous Inhabitant Certificates”, read the main resolution pertaining to child adoption.

Resolution Committee Convenor, Vihoshe Mürü, read out 10 resolutions that were unanimously adopted by the congregation of over 1,000 people at the Sümi Baghi Hoho (Sümi general public meeting), which was held in the Multi-Purpose Hall, Zunheboto, on Friday, informed a delayed update from Joint Secretary of Sümi Hoho.

According to customary law, the adopted non-locals have no hereditary property inheritance rights and village chieftain’s rights; those who subjugate any Sümi or instigate falsehoods among Nagas will face heavy penalties, added the resolution on child adoption.

Speaking at the conference, Minister of Public Works Department (Roads and Bridges), G Kaito Aye highlighted the developmental works and those in the pipeline for Zunheboto district.

While requesting the Sümi Hoho to honour the performing GBs to motivate them, he also asked the hoho and Sümi frontal organisations to take stern action against GBs and retired government servants who have joined various underground factions.

Y. Kikheto Sema, Commissioner and Secretary, urged the Sumis to maintain peaceful relationships with all Naga tribes and refrain from negativity on social media.

Stressing on the need for clean elections, he said that Sümis lead in expenditure during election, and so they shouldn't blame politicians for the lack of development. He went on to say Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio should be respected and not criticised.

He added that good people should not suffer because of the bad actions of a few.

Earlier in the programme, Sümi Hoho President I. Nikheto Jimomi thanked Sümi legislators, former leaders of Sümi frontal organisations, elders, church members, and prayer warriors for their unwavering support.

MLA Picto Shohe; former president of Sümi Hoho, Dr. Hokishe Yeputhomi; and president of Sümi Kükami Hoho, Akükau Hetoho Zhimomi also spoke at the event.

Tolino Chishi was felicitated for clearing the Indian administrative service (IAS) exam.

President of the Western Sümi Hoho and Search Committee Convenor, Shikaho Zhimomi, declared the new team of Sümi Hoho for the tenure 2024-27 at the event.