NSCN (I-M) Chakhesang Region, under the banner of Chakhesang National Workers Forum (CNWF) held a significant meeting of reconciliation and reaffirmation at Central Headquarters (CHQ), Hebron, on April 4, 2025.
The gathering was attended by members from across the region, including top leadership and long-serving national workers, all coming together to renew their dedication to the Naga national movement.
The house reaffirmed its unwavering support to the leadership of president Q. Tuccu, vice president Tongmeth Wangnao, ato kilonser Th. Muivah, and deputy ato kilonser V.S. Atem, reiterating that the solution to the Indo-Naga political issue must include the flag, constitution, and integration. Members resolved that the Framework Agreement must be upheld in both letter and spirit.
The forum called for forgiveness and reconciliation, urging all members to forget past grievances and work together for the common cause. The forum also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the Naga Plebiscite. All members present pledged and raised their hands, vowing to remain united and not be divided.
Neipfupe (Ape) Venuh, member of the collective leadership and president of Chakhesang National Worker Forum, chaired the program. In his address, he traced the journey of the Chakhesang Region’s growth since its expansion under the NSCN/GPRN in 1995, crediting the vision and effort of deputy ato kilonser V.S. Atem for sowing the seeds of today’s unity.
He described the day as a “red-letter day in the history of the Chakhesang Region,” marked by the presence of committed members who set aside their differences to reaffirm loyalty and solidarity. He acknowledged Saloni, Steering Committee Member, and Sievele Kenye, SEM, for nearly five decades of unwavering service to the Naga cause.
The program began with a Bible reading and invocation prayer by Poto Tatar. David Mero, Member Collective Leadership, delivered the welcome address, thanking everyone—especially the keynote speakers— deputy ato kilonser VS Atem and kilo kilonser Ashiho for their presence. He encouraged the national workers to reflect, forgive, and correct their past mistakes, emphasizing that “unity is the cornerstone of nation-building.”
Ashiho, in his address, emphasized that victories are achieved through discipline and teamwork, citing the unity that defined the region’s joining of NSCN/GPRN in 1993. He lamented the current issues of division, disunity, and lack of coordination, urging members to return to the principles that once united them.
“Let white be white, and black be black—we cannot mix colors to create confusion,” he said, urging clarity and commitment in leadership. He emphasized that responsibilities assigned by the government are for the greater good and should not be misinterpreted as personal ambitions.
Deputy ato kilonser V.S. Atem, in his message reflected on the early struggles of the Naga freedom movement. He recalled how the Indian Army misjudged the Nagas, labeling them as “cannibals” during interrogation and torture. However, he praised the Chakhesang people for their bravery and integrity, even under duress.
He addressed the divisive impact of the Shillong Accord, which he said was a root cause of internal conflict, and reiterated that Chakhesang from UT and Phek areas are one people, united under a common identity.
“Why should we break apart among ourselves? Jesus said, ‘A divided house is bound to fall.’ We must stand united,” he said, calling on the younger generation to carry forward the movement with renewed commitment.
He further stated that Jehovah has called the Nagas for a purpose, and forgetting Him would lead nowhere. Referencing the Bible, he said, “Without Me, there is no branch or vine.”
In conclusion, he encouraged open communication and assured that all members could access him through his subordinate officers. “Let us be united and speak openly. God bless you all,” he concluded.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Kilonser Kuthonuzo, who expressed gratitude to all participants and leaders for their contributions toward reconciliation and unity.
The program concluded with a benediction prayer by Mrs. Apele Venuh, kilonser NSCN/GPRN.