In commemoration of the 70th Republic Day of the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN), members of Kezekevi Thehou Ba (KTB), a Kohima-based think tank comprising senior members, visited Parashen, the historic site where the first Naga National Flag was hoisted and the FGN was declared on March 22, 1956. The delegation was led by Naga Club president Kuolachalie Seyie.
The visit was marked by solemn reflection on the sacrifices made by Naga pioneers who remained steadfast in their commitment to the Naga cause.
Addressing the gathering, Seyie recalled the momentous occasion in 1956, when the Naga National Council (NNC) under A. Z. Phizo proclaimed the formation of the FGN at Parashen in the Rengma Region.
He noted that several top Naga leaders from the NNC and FGN had gathered that day to solemnly declare their commitment to God and the Naga Nation, reading passages from the Bible:
Thongti Chang, chief of Naga Home Guards, read Psalm 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. The people He has chosen as His own inheritance.”
Khriesanisa Seyie, the first kedahge (president) of the FGN, read Romans 10:18: “Their sound has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.”
Wheha Rengma, the first ato kilonser (prime minister) of FGN, read Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
Kruzhalie Peseyie, Ahng (governor) of Japfü State, read Romans 8:33: “Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.” Finally, A. Z. Phizo, president of the NNC, read Zechariah 4:6: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”
Following the readings, the first Naga National Flag, bearing a cross on the lower right side, was hoisted at Parashen by Thongti Chang under tight security. The event was marked by an emotional ceremony, with tears of joy reflecting the deep sense of dedication and responsibility felt by the Naga leaders.
Seyie underscored the importance of preserving this history, calling for the erection of monoliths to honour the pioneers of the Naga movement. He stressed the need for documenting the contributions of these leaders, ensuring that their sacrifices are properly recognized by future generations.
Gwasinlo Thong, who hosted the visiting team, expressed gratitude for their journey to Parashen. He acknowledged the delegation’s effort in revisiting this historic landmark.
Robert N. Solo, Naga Club and KTB executive, described walking to Parashen as a “historic and emotional moment.” He emphasized that while Nagas have countless untold stories, only a few are willing to listen. KTB, he said, is committed to promoting interaction and fostering unity.
Rovigwelhou Chüsi shared that visiting the site where the first flag was hoisted had been a long-cherished dream. He reminded the gathering that Nagas initially had one government—the FGN—before the Shillong Accord led to divisions, resulting in multiple factions.
“Today, there are 28 groups, but Nagas are one people, with one land and one prayer. Our priority should be unity,” he emphasized, warning that disunity had weakened the Naga movement.
Mhalelie Vimera stressed the need to acknowledge all those present on the day of the first flag hoisting, questioning whether Imkongmeren and other pioneers were included in records. He called for monuments to honour their contributions.
Daso Paphino highlighted the symbolic significance of the FGN flag hoisting at Parashen, stating that it marked the beginning of a conscious decision to defend the Naga homeland. “The flag, woven by Rengma women, was not hoisted blindly. Our pioneers understood the price and sacrifice it entailed,” he remarked, acknowledging the Rengma community’s role during turbulent times.
Khinyi Woch and L. Chubalepzuk Ao recalled the difficult circumstances of 1956, when Indian military operations forced villagers to flee into forests. Ao, who was nine years old at the time, recounted his experiences and suggested that Imkongmeren’s absence from the flag hoisting could have been due to the prevailing situation. Woch assured the gathering that efforts would be made to verify historical facts and ensure no names were left out when erecting memorials.
The gathering ended with a renewed sense of purpose—to preserve Naga history, promote unity, and honour the sacrifices of the pioneers. Participants agreed that documenting and recognizing the contributions of Naga leaders is an essential step toward strengthening the Naga movement.