HT Bureau
DIPHU, Aug 1: The 39th foundation day of Karbi Nimso Chingthur Asong (KNCA), a prominent Karbi women’s organisation, was observed with a daylong programme at the KNCA Central Committee office here on Friday.
The celebration commenced with the hoisting of the organisation’s flag by KNCA president Maikon Rongpharpi, followed by homage to departed members, led by former Karbi Students Association (KSA) member Arnika Teronpi.
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As part of the day’s observance, KNCA president Rongpharpi and general secretary Kajek Tokbipi submitted a memorandum to the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), Tuliram Ronghang.
The memorandum urged the CEM to press Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to initiate tripartite talks on the Autonomous State issue with the central government, as assured during a July meeting with the FHASM delegation.
The KNCA also demanded the implementation of 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament, state assemblies, and KAAC.
Additionally, the organisation called for the case of Namrata Engtipi’s death in July at Nagaon to be taken up in a fast-track court for speedy investigation and justice.
A meeting in the afternoon saw the participation of leaders from several political parties and organisations. Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC) president Sonasing Terang, speaking on the occasion, recalled the 1986 Autonomous State movement led by the ASDC, KNCA, and KSA, which he said faced significant obstacles including police action.
He called for the revival of that spirit through joint movements by women and students’ bodies.
He also referred to the formation of the Forum for Hills Autonomous State Movement (FHASM), comprising the ASDC, KSA, KNCA, APHLC, KKCA, PYDC, UKYA, DSU, and others.
Terang urged the KNCA to address growing social concerns such as substance abuse among youth, and said women must take proactive roles in correcting these issues.
KNCA general secretary Kajek Tokbipi reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advocating for women’s rights.
She highlighted issues like domestic violence, social media addiction, financial stress, and early marriages, all of which were discussed at the meeting.
She called for efforts to bring positive changes in society through grassroots mobilisation.
In her presidential address, KNCA president Maikon Rongpharpi announced plans to visit regional committees to strengthen the organisation.
She said the KNCA would soon organise health camps and awareness programmes to address early marriage among school dropouts, which she said was contributing to rising cases of domestic violence and child-mother related issues.
Karbi Cultural Society president Humsing Bey and APHLC president James Hanse also addressed the gathering, speaking on the role of women in societal development and the Autonomous State movement.
On the occasion, the KNCA felicitated two women athletes — Homsira Rongpipi and Pokhila Engtipi — for their participation in the World Masters Games held in Taiwan in May 2025.
Other speakers and participants included KSA president Jemson Timung, ASDC Youth Front president Premson Bey, Rasinja Asong president Kasang Beypi and vice president Deepali Engjaipi, and Karbi So-arlo Kirsan Asong (KSKA) president Basapi Taropi and secretary Leena Hansepi.
