Traditional self-governing institutions among the Zeliangrongs of NE India

Dr Budha Kamei
Contd from previous issue
After marriage, a woman automatically becomes a member of Mathenmei Kaibang, though the functions of the Mathenmei are somewhat limited. They do, however, play a role during festivals and religious ceremonies.
The oldest woman serves as the head of the dormitory, while the Lakpui Munsinmei, caretaker acts as an advisor and guide.
During the Gaan-Ngai festival, songs are sung and cultural dances are performed in the house of women who have married within the year leading up to the festival. In this dormitory, the women discuss and resolve issues related to their welfare and the community. Moreover, the members of this dormitory actively participate in maintaining peace and harmony within society.
Pei
Above all the institutions, the Pei (village cuncil) is the highest and supreme body of administration in the village, overseeing various departments and ensuring equal treatment for all villagers, regardless of their administrative positions. In Rongmei society, there is no class system that distinguishes between low and high standings. The Pei is composed of Nampou (village chief), and elders of the different clans. Nampou presides over the meeting of Pei and also represents the village in inter-village affairs.
In the past, the Pei maintained independent relation- ships with other villages. It serves as the highest court in the village, where all civil and criminal cases are tried under customary laws. Petitions or complaints are lodged verbally, often accompanied by a pot of wine or rice beer as a form of offering to the Pei. The elders of the Pei are well-versed in the customary laws, and they impose penalties on wrongdoers, which typically take the form of livestock, wine, or other traditional fines. Justice is administered impartially according to the customs of the Rongmei.
In cases where there is no evidence or witnesses, oaths and ordeals are used to ascertain the truth. While the Pei supervises the village's religious activities, it also consults with the priest for guidance.
The Pei maitains the village land and forest and distribute plot of land to the villagers for cultivation as part of general welfare. It regulates festivals, marriages, and other community rituals according to tradition. It also maintains harmony and unity within the village. Thus, the village chief and elders of the council hold privileged positions. Pei meeting on any matter of the village or individual is generally presided by the village chief. With changing time and space, now, the Pei acts as social institution of the village.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Rongmei community is centered around their village, with various institu- tions shaping the people’s way of life. The village functions properly through these institutions.
In Khangchiu and Luchiu, informal education used to be provided to young boys and girls; however, this has now largely been replaced by formal schooling. While the proper functioning of these traditional institutions has diminished, it cannot be concluded that they have completely disappeared from contemporary Rong-mei society. They still exist, but now primarily function during festivals and important occasions. Pei also now functions as a social institution.