Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN), Chakhesang Region, commemorated the 79th Naga Independence Day at Thenyizumi Village on Wednesday with solemn observance and renewed calls for unity and national integrity. The occasion was graced by General (Retd.) Viyalie Metha, Kedahge, who delivered the presidential message following the unfurling of the national flag.
Expressing gratitude to the host village, Viyalie recalled the historic declaration of Naga independence on August 14, 1947, stating that “three score and eighteen years ago, we declared our independence as colonialism was drawing to a close.” He asserted that the declaration affirmed Nagaland’s sovereign status and its right to determine its own future.
He maintained that while the Nagas sought peaceful coexistence, India invaded in 1955 and “continues her illegal occupation till date.” He emphasized that survival alone was insufficient, urging every Naga to contribute towards building a vibrant future for the coming generations.
Highlighting the importance of constitutional rights and duties, he said these were essential for ensuring security and individual freedom, and called for adherence to the Yehzabo as the guiding framework for national progress. Paying tribute to those who laid down their lives for the cause, Viyalie cautioned against “irrelevant narratives and ideologies” that could derail the national vision.
He reaffirmed the legitimacy of Naga sovereignty through the historical continuity of the Naga National Council (NNC) and the FGN, and stressed that political or personal differences must not compromise unity under the mandated national platform. Referring to the 75th Naga Voluntary Plebiscite Day observed earlier this year, he reiterated that the 1951 plebiscite—where 99.9% voted for independence—ratified the 1947 declaration.
He concluded his address by calling for unity rooted in national principles, integrity, and values, stating these must be “as strong as iron and steel forged in the strongest heat and hammered by the heaviest hammer.”
Earlier, the programme was led by Capt. (Retd.) Yirei Lungleng, Rali Wali Kilonser, FGN. Rev. Dr. Chekrove-i Cho-o, executive secretary of CBCC, offered scripture reading and prayer. Welcome address was delivered by Thenyizumi Village Council chairman Medoth Rhakho, followed by a special song presentation by Yorüba Youth.
Awards were presented during the event, and a special prayer for the nation was offered. Folk song performances were rendered by Thenyizumi Women Group, Kuzha Cultural Society, Chetheba Women Group, and Shothalü Neykha & Friends. The vote of thanks was delivered by Kamucho Chüzho, Midan Peyu, Chakhesang Region, FGN.
FGN’s I-Day at Khonoma
The 79th Naga Independence Day was commemorated at Terhotsiese, Khonoma, on Thursday with solemnity and renewed calls for unity and adherence to the founding principles of the Naga National Council (NNC). The event, held in the native village of A.Z. Phizo, was marked by speeches, cultural presentations, and reaffirmation of the Naga people’s historical declaration of independence on August 14, 1947—one day ahead of India’s own.
In his message delivered by deputy kilo Kilonser Tüsoveyi Demo, FGN Kedahge K. Vadeo described the occasion as a unique opportunity to reiterate the Naga declaration of independence from the very soil of its founding leader. He expressed deep appreciation to the people of Khonoma for their leadership and commitment to the Naga cause.
Vadeo stated that the Naga struggle remains one of the longest political movements in history, rooted in resistance to external aggression. He emphasized that the issue is not merely historical but continues to affect the present. “We have survived all odds because our cause has a firm foundation,” he said.
He attributed the fragmentation of the Naga movement to political manipulation and temptations that led some leaders astray, resulting in multiple factions. Vadeo called for clarity and unity, urging all former comrades to return to the original platform of the NNC and FGN. “There is nothing like home,” he said, extending an open invitation to those willing to recommit to the collective vision.
Reiterating the NNC’s stand, Vadeo cited six foundational principles, including adherence to the Yezabo, the 1951 Naga Plebiscite, and the 1929 Simon Commission declaration. He affirmed that the NNC and FGN have no connection with the Indian Constitution and remain steadfast in their mission to uphold the birthright of the Naga people.
NNC president Gen. (Rtd.) Thinoselie M. Keyho, in a speech read by the Khonoma Rüffüno Unit president, described the day as a “red letter day” and warned against divisive propaganda.
He called for unity, spiritual reliance, and vigilance against misinformation.