Along with various Naga Political Groups (NPGs) NSCN(I-M) celebrated the declaration of 79th Naga Independence Day on August 14 at Council Headquarters, Hebron where Chairman and Yaruiwo NSCN(I-M) Q.Tuccu unfurled the Naga national flag on the occasion.
The speech of Chief Political Negotiator and General Secretary Th. Muivah was read out by Ino Kilo Kilonser Ashiho Asoumai as he was unable to attend the programme. In his speech, Muivah traced the Naga struggle for sovereignty and identity. He recalled the political suppression on Nagas, beginning under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and cited the 1958 introduction of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act as a pivotal grievance. He maintained that the turning point in “Indo-Naga” relations began with Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao’s 1995 Paris statement when he recognized the political nature of the conflict. Muivah said this paved the way for the 1997 ceasefire and subsequent peace talks without pre-conditions and at the highest-level engagement outside India.
The speech highlighted subsequent milestones: the 2002 Amsterdam Joint Communique and the 2015 Framework Agreement-where New Delhi acknowledged the Nagas’ distinct history, coexistence and shared sovereignty. He also praised the Naga people’s enduring patience and resolve in defending their identity.
On the occasion, various Naga organizations and representatives attended the programme to mark National Solidarity Day and to stress unity, reconciliation, and a shared vision for a political settlement.
Speeches and messages on the occasion came from Naga Hoho (NH), Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA), Tirap Changlang Longding People’s Forum (TCLPF), United Naga Council (UNC), Global Naga Forum (GNF), Naga Student Federation (NSF), and Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR).
NMA President Vilanuo Angela Yhome conveyed gratitude to past Naga leaders and freedom fighters whose sacrifices she said laid the groundwork for the nation. She encouraged Naga national workers to uphold the principles of Naga nationalism and to remain confident and optimistic that freedom will be granted. She urged the Government of India to respect Naga rights and to accelerate peace negotiations toward a final settlement.
Naga Hoho President Sulanthung Lotha underscored the necessity of unity and reconciliation among Naga political groups as a pathway to a durable and inclusive political solution. He lauded the fourth NNC president A.Z.Phizo and the sacrifices of former leaders and national workers, for their sacrifices and commitment. Lotha also warned against rivalry between the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position which could delay an early political resolution, casting doubt on the pace and transparency of the talks. He noted growing public uncertainty as talks progress with limited visible changes, urging a pragmatic, rights-based approach grounded in Naga history.
The TCLPF sent a message via its chairperson in the absence of a full gathering, with TCLPF president N. C. Naga calling for reverence to past sacrifices and a celebration of National Solidarity Day through unity in diversity.
UNC, President Ng. Lorho paid glowing tributes to the memory of leaders who protected the land, identity, and rights of the people and acknowledged the hardships they had to overcome through collective effort. Lorho urged Nagas to sustain unity, strength, and pride, and to continue the legacy of their leaders while pursuing a path that addresses future needs.
A representative from GNF spoke of the Nagas’ shared history, culture, and ancestral lands, existing long before colonial borders. She warned against the forgetting of Naga unity and cautioned against the notion that Nagas cannot govern themselves. She emphasized on unity in diversity and urged on all to reject tribalism, regionalism, and rivalries.
NSF Vice President Mteisuding described the gathering as a clear demonstration of unity and a message to the Indian government that Naga identity remains rooted in political struggle. He called for cross-group unity, warning that disunity risks undermining the collective objective. A pointed message to the Government of India followed, asserting that the Naga people have been let down for over 78 years.
Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) representative noted that despite oppression and loss of life, the Naga spirit has remained resilient. He criticized the Indian government for using some Nagas to create internal divisions. He also warned of continued threats to Naga rights, such as land encroachment and the recent abrogation of the Free Movement Regime. The NPMHR representative appealed to both India and Myanmar to respect the Nagas’ desire for autonomy, which was first expressed to the Simon Commission in 1929. Earlier, the program was chaired by Capt. Iyaria, ODS, GHQ, Naga Army and Inakili Chishi Swu, Deputy Secretary, invocation by Chaplain, GFTHQ, Naga Army, Maj. Somreingam Shokwungnao, vote of thanks by Cabinet Secretary, Capt. (Retd.) Th. Rainam, benediction by Chaplain, GHO Church, Naga Army, Lieut. Col. Kanamdai Dangmei
Highlights of the prgramme included folk dance by Marok Dibuia Cultural Club Dimapur, and Guard of honour presented by GFTHQ, naga Army. Rank declaration by Keya Secretary, Ino George D. Golmei, patriotic Songs by GHQ, Naga Army, Pelao Konyak, Lemmichon Khapai and Akumdong Jamir and a silent prayer in honor of Martyrs was led by CNC, General Secy. Rev. Seksim Kasar.