Ngainga Village in Ukhrul District inaugurated its newly constructed Village Court today. The land is donated by the Village Headman, Khangamkhai RS and his family.
The inauguration ceremony was officiated by Chief Guest S.A. Ramnganing, President of the Naga Village Chief/Headman Federation (South), who formally cut the ribbon, declaring the facility open in the presence of customary village leaders, church representatives, and headmen from neighbouring villages.
Presiding over 13 village judges, Ngainga Headman Khangamkhai RS expressed gratitude to the community and neighbouring village authorities for their support throughout the project. The land for the courthouse was donated by the Headman and his family. Funding included an assistance grant of ₹5.5 lakh sanctioned under the 15th Finance Commission work programme via the Autonomous District Council (ADC) through the assistance of Ramyang, alongside contributions from Themreishang Muinao, Executive Engineer (PHED Ukhrul), and local donors.
Alongside the building’s opening, the village also introduced official robes for its 13-member customary bench.
Addressing the gathering, S.A. Ramnganing underscored the significance of judicial integrity and the historic tradition of judicial attire, noting that the gown signifies impartiality, neutrality, and solemn responsibility under customary law. Emphasizing the broader impact of the initiative, Ramnganing remarked that Ngainga’s proximity to Ukhrul town positions it as a model across Tangkhul areas. He noted that dedicated courthouses remain rare in rural areas, where proceedings typically occur in village chiefs’ personal homes, and it inspires the visiting village heads to establish dedicated village courts to strengthen customary rule of law.
The inaugural programme was moderated by Khavangsing Mahaknao, Secretary of the Ngainga Village Authority. The event commenced with an opening invocation by Wungmachan RS, Assistant Pastor of Ngainga Baptist Church (NBC), followed by a dedicatory prayer for the courthouse and judicial vestments by NBC Pastor Rev. Nganingkhui Ragui.
The gathering was attended by headmen and village authority representatives from neighbouring communities, including Somdal, Talui, Ngahui, Longpi Kajui, and Longpi Khullen. The programme concluded with a benediction by Thotmahai RS, Village Development Council (VDC) Ngainga, followed by a community lunch.
