The Hill People’s Cultural Forum (HPCF) marked its Ninth anniversary with a vibrant celebration held at the Diphu Club, bringing together representatives from 27 ethnic communities in the Karbi Anglong district. The event was graced by Dr. Tuliram Ronghang, the chief executive member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, who served as the chief guest. The forum’s commitment to fostering unity and cultural appreciation among diverse groups was the focal point of the gathering.
In his address, Dr. Ronghang praised the HPCF for its tireless efforts in promoting cultural harmony and urged all ethnic communities to collaborate for the district’s equitable development. “In the past, there were conflicts and misunderstandings among various groups,” he noted, emphasizing the significant progress made under the current BJP government. “Today, we live in an environment of peace, and it is imperative that we capitalize on this atmosphere to build a stronger, more united community.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Ronghang announced an exciting cultural program scheduled for next year at the Kalakshetra in Guwahati. This event aims to showcase the rich tapestry of traditions and cultures that comprise the Karbi Anglong district, providing a platform for all ethnic groups to highlight their unique heritages.
Laichan Engleng, head of the HPCF, echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the challenges that the district has faced in the past. “We have experienced times of extremism and group conflicts that created barriers among our communities,” Engleng stated. He acknowledged that while significant strides have been made in bridging these divides, the journey toward complete unity is ongoing. “This celebration is not just a reflection of our past but also a commitment to our future,” he added.
In front of the media, the head of HPCHF, Laichan Engleng, stated that they had previously faced a terrifying situation in the district. At times, there were issues related to extremism, and at other times, group conflicts were affecting the area. These circumstances had created a distance among the various ethnic communities living in the district. In an effort to reduce this distance, they organized the event. Engleng commented that they have achieved some success in this area, although there is still much work to be done.
