Correspondent
KOHIMA, AUG 26 (NPN): Meluri District Unity Stone Monolith was unveiled at Tsütuo Kharu, Kewhitsiituo Model, Kohima, on August 26 by advisor, NSDMA & Inland Waterways, Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe. Initiated and constructed by Tsütuonuomia Khel Council, the monolith symbolises Naga unity, brotherhood and oneness.
The formal programme was followed by Reiphinyii Badze, where Nyuthe called for greater unity among the Naga people, urging society to refrain from blame and instead renew efforts towards understanding and oneness.
Recalling the historical evolution of the region, Nyuthe highlighted the creation of Meluri district, Nagaland’s newest district, which was inaugurated on February 21, 2025, by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio. He described the creation of districts as part of the aspiration for every tribal community to have its own administrative home.
Nyuthe also underscored the historical significance of Kohima Village, its role in the early Naga movement and the Battle of Kohima during the Second World War. Referring to the Tsütuonuomia Khel and the traditional Khel system, he said the distinct organisation of the four khels reflected Kohima’s unique social structure and heritage. On the Naga political issue, Nyuthe reiterated the government’s commitment under Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio to pursue a solution, recalling the Naga Consultative Meeting of September 12, 2024, where participants adopted a resolution appealing for unity and collective engagement in the peace process.
Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, described the unveiling as a significant occasion, commending the Tsütuonuomia Khel Council for the initiative. He said the Unity Stone was more than a physical structure, representing history, identity, solidarity and collective aspiration. He stressed that true strength lay not only in infrastructure but in the unity and cooperation of people.
Buchem also highlighted the historical contributions of Tsütuonuomia Khel, including resistance to British expansion in 1879 and the role of its members in shaping modern Naga political consciousness. He urged communities to view the Unity Stone as a symbolic commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and cooperation.
Earlier, Tsütuonuomia Khel chairman, K. Neibou Sekhose, delivered the welcome address, describing the unveiling as a proud day for Nagaland and Meluri, the State’s 17th district. He noted that with the unveiling of the Meluri Unity Stone, all 17 districts were now represented through Unity Stone Monoliths.
Sekhose said the monolith symbolised that Nagaland is one-many tribes and districts, but one people and one future. General Secretary of Tsütuonuomia Khel Council, Er. Thepfuzakie Suohu, delivered the words of appreciation. The Pochury Hoho Kohima also extended greetings on the occasion.