DIMAPUR: The Global Naga Forum (GNF) held an international commemoration of the 79th anniversary of the declaration of Naga Independence on August 14 through a four-hour global hybrid assembly under the theme “The Unbroken Line: Territory, Transit, and Truth.”
The programme brought together Naga representatives from Nagaland, Manipur, Assam and Myanmar, along with UN Indigenous-rights experts, the President of the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) and Indigenous leaders from Canada, the Arctic, Indonesia, Colombia and New Zealand.
GNF convenor Chuba Ozukum called upon Nagas to remember their history honestly and work towards a peaceful and just political solution, while Naga National Council spokesperson Kolezo Chase described the Naga political issue as a bilateral matter between India and the Naga nation.
Two members of the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, speaking in their individual capacities, also delivered video messages. Gam A. Shimray stressed the importance of defining sovereignty, while Ojot M. Ojulu raised concerns over the militarisation and securitisation of Naga territories and their impact on Indigenous rights.
Dr. Poujenlung Gonmei, Principal of Highland National College, Imphal, spoke on the withdrawal of the Free Movement Regime and militarisation of Naga transit routes.
Advocate Worso Zimik, Delhi, presented a legal reading of the Indo-Naga political issue and the 2015 Framework Agreement in his personal capacity.
International solidarity messages were delivered by representatives of Indigenous organisations from Canada, the Sámi Council, South Moluccas, Colombia and New Zealand, as well as the UNPO and South Asia Forum for Human Rights. The programme also featured musical and cultural presentations. During the segment “Voices from the Fractured Lines,” representatives from Myanmar, Assam, Manipur and Nagaland spoke on issues concerning Naga unity, territorial alienation and justice. GNF co-convenor Samuel Pou read out the 79th Anniversary Declaration, which concluded with the words: “The land remembers. The people endure. The line remains unbroken.” The forum said the full declaration would be released separately.
Prof. Rosemary Dzüvichü, co-convenor of GNF, delivered words of gratitude, while Pastor Adahe Neli offered the closing benediction.
Monday, August 17, 2026