After an intense discussion, the jury decided the Naga Mothers Association and the Meira Paibis of Manipur should share the Lifetime Contribution Award. The fact that both groups are driven by women and have battled serious social and law-and-order problems in the northeast struck a deep chord with jury members. NMA and Meira Paibi have campaigned against alcohol and drug addiction, gender violance and human rights violations in their states. With their "Shed No More Blood" movement, the NMA has nurturned and sustained a ceasefire between Naga underground groups and the government, and continues to monitor the peace process. Historicially, the Naga and Meiti men have been in conflict, and initially, we were not sure if the women would accept a joint award. After several phone calls and meetings with senior TOI editors in Kohima and Imphal, and internal discussions of their own, both groups said they would be "honoured" to accept the award. (TOI photos by Anindya Chattopadhyay)]
Source: TOI.
