Probably the most rugged parts of the Himalayas are found in the Northeastern part of our nation. Its wildness I kind of experienced when I read a book written by a soldier who fought in those ranges back in 1960's during the China war. It is beauty with beast brought to earth in a simple package of brilliance. And of course the beautiful lands of Nagaland, Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya and the rest. I am writing this blog to remind myself and the others that all these are very much a part of India! Now, don't think- Whats wrong with her! Of course we know that it is a part of India! I, honestly, have almost forgotten that these states exist in India!
An ex-colleague of mine who happened to be from Manipur, shared with me some customs they follow in their tribal systems and nuptials. She jokingly remarked, that people don't identify them to be Indians wherever they go, because they seem to be from a different race. Somewhere inside, it bothered me. We also do not get to hear much of the happenings in this part of the country..once in a while I have heard about Sikkim, Assam..There are two possibilities- either what I am assuming is true or I do not keep myself updated with news channels. I will continue assuming that my first assumption is right. I really wish I could spend more time with her to know more about the wonderful Northeast.
In relation to this, I had watched a coverage by CNN-IBN a few months ago. They had covered the real Northeast and the miseries the citizens experience there. It also literally showed the maniacal persona of the police and the administrative class.. who, carried away by the power vested in their hands, abuse every other layman for no reason..even to the extent of shooting them to death in public. It was horrifying! The laugh a particular policeman sported in the coverage reminds me of Ravana. When people are not let to live by themselves peacefully, when justice is not delivered to the needful, when an RJ calls a singing competition winner to be a gurkha, when the central government pays no heed to the cries of its citizens and the state itself, I see no point in bifurcating land and fixing boundaries. And the plight of women there..I better not go into it. In short, whatever is happening, is not pleasant at all! When I look at all of these, I am very grateful for what I am and where I am. To imagine yourself in their shoes is itself terrifying..forget witnessing it!
I pray their needs be met and also hope justice prevails. Man is born to live his life..in accordance to his wish and will. Northeast is the best part of India-with many tribes being present, its scenic beauty and also the patriotism they show is appreciable. It has given great significance to the image India carries globally. I hope we give them back at least what every human being brought to this world deserves..as a token of gratitude and respect.
