The European-North East Indian Diaspora Meeting at the South Asia Institute
The European Northeast India Diaspora meeting was held at the South Asia Institute (SAI) of Heidelberg University between March 20 and March 22, organised by human rights defender Mr Babloo Loitongbam, visiting researcher at the Department of Political Science.
Mr Loitongbam is among the leading human rights activists of the conflict-ridden state of Manipur in India's Northeast. Amidst the recent escalation of ethnic violence between the Meitei and the Kuki communities, he has been advocating for a victim-centred human rights-based approach to build peace among the communities.
The event commenced on the evening of the first day with ice-breaking activities and a musical programme. The following morning opened with an introductory tour of the Centre for Asian and Transcultural Studies, guided by former Vice Rector of the University of Heidelberg, Prof. Anja Senz. The tour was followed by a series of talks hosted by social activist, writer and researcher Ms Ngurang Reena. Mr Babloo Loitongbam delivered the welcome address on behalf of the Northeast Diaspora Community, followed by a welcome address of Prof. Dr Rahul Mukherji on behalf of the Department of Political Science, SAI, Heidelberg University. Before the introduction of all participants, Dr Dieter Reinhardt (SAI) delivered a talk on Northeast India's role in the revitalised EU-India relationship.
The afternoon sessions focused on a workshop series on roots, relations, and responsibility. Discussions explored how participants might honour the roots that nurtured them while allowing them to grow in new contexts and environments. They also reflected on how members of the diaspora might engage with one another in Europe beyond tribe, state, and inherited divisions. A further key question concerned the responsibilities of diaspora communities from afar towards the lives and struggles unfolding in Northeast India. Following these discussions, participants reviewed the main findings and deliberations, after which the drafting committee for the foundational document was constituted. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr Kothilphun Maring.
The evening session was dedicated to the presentation, deliberation and adoption of the foundational document. It concluded with a shared dinner and a musical programme.
