By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The emerging trend of vandalisim and ostracisim emerging out of the superstitious beliefs of the tribal communities in the region has become a major concern for many even as they termed such beliefs as myth or an ultimate imagination of the people.
“It is unfortunate that even in this modern age of science and technology, superstitions still lurks in the cultures of many tribes in the northeast and Meghalaya”, renowned writer Sweetimon Rynjah observed while adding that it is a stigma in the society which should be eradicated.
Rynjah was addressing a two-day regional seminar on superstition in the Tribal culture of the northeast, ‘A study of Myth and Reality’ organised by the Arts and Culture department at the Arts and Culture Hall here in the city on Friday.
“The ever growing reports on devastating instances of mob fury resulting out of the various superstitious beliefs confirms that superstitions rule the mindset of the common people instead of rationality”, she said.
Rynjah also cited a few incidences in the state since 2006 which included the case at Laitkyrhong, Mawlai, Mawbsein, Sohra, Joiram, Wahlyngkhat, Lampluh and the recent incident at Mawsynram while mentioning that the outcome of such beliefs had cost the lives and property of many.
Meanwhile, addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Pro Vice Chancellor of NEHU, Prof B Myrboh emphasised on the need to spread awareness not only in the urban areas but every nook and corner of the state.
Stating that the education is still recent to the tribals of the region, Prof Myrboh stressed on the need to focus on education at the primary as well as higher level. “Ultimately, education matters and it is important to take it to the masses”, he added.
Pointing out that the state government has an important role to play in this regard to ensure that education reaches the remotess of the villages, Prof Myrboh said that education is the ultimate solution to tackle this menace.
The seminar was attended by as many as 15 resources persons from all over the region including scholars, writers of the state, teachers and students besides others.