Neiphiu Rio reiterates on unity among Nagas
Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) marked 150 years of its formation at an impressive programme held at Local Ground Chümoukedima on November 9 with Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio as special guest.
The chief minister also inaugurated the CPO’s Sesquicentennial Monoliths and released the Souvenir. Speaking on the occasion, Rio praised the people of Chakhroma for their longstanding generosity, allowing various tribes and communities to live together peacefully in their area.
He encouraged them to maintain this spirit of inclusivity in the future. Rio noted that the Chakhroma Public Organization (CPO) might be among the oldest social organizations in the State, as it was mentioned by British officer Captain Butler in 1874 under the name “Chakhroma Group.”
He highlighted the vision of past Chakhroma leaders who welcomed Angami villagers and other Naga communities, a foresight that has benefited the area today. Rio urged today’s leaders to share the Souvenir’s historical records, gathered from British documents, with younger generations, recognizing the privilege of having their history preserved in written form
Rio recalled his decision to relocate the district headquarters to Chümoukedima, prioritizing a spacious site with potential for development. He praised Chümoukedima for its harmony among diverse communities and highlighted its connectivity advantages, including nearby railheads at Shukhovi and Molvom, an airport, and quality health and educational institutions like CISHR, NIT, ICFAI University, and North East Christian University.
Rio emphasized the legacy of unity fostered by Naga forefathers and urged residents to uphold this spirit. He also recalled how the British shifted their administrative headquarters from Asaloo to Chümoukedima in the 1860s, and in 1873, the British Parliament enacted the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) Act to protect local customs from outside influence.
Since 1978, entire district of Dimapur was declared a tribal belt in order to protect Naga land and culture, and called upon Village Council Chairmen, GBs and tribal organizations to work hand in hand with the Government to ensure that the noble aims of the Government are fulfilled.
Rio announced plans to establish a modern playground, named “Samagooting,” near DC office in Chümoukedima, in collaboration with the Chümoukedima Village Council to help future generations connect with their heritage. He noted that British records from 1866 to 1878 referred to Chümoukedima as Samagooting, then the British administrative headquarters.
Zhaleo Rio, advisor for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs and a CPO member, welcomed tribal councils, hoho leaders, and village elders, expressing gratitude for their show of solidarity.
He highlighted CPO’s formation in 1873, rooted in documented British-era historical records, and emphasized the importance of preserving ancestral heritage for future generations.
Acknowledging divisions within Nagas, he underscored their shared history and resources, urging unity despite differences. He reminded attendees that while Nagaland remains rich in heritage and natural resources, it continues to face economic challenges.
Zhaleo appealed for collective efforts across communities to foster peace, economic progress, and a unified solution to their common challenges, urging stakeholders to collaborate towards a single shared goal.
Advisor for Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu Kense, congratulated the CPO on its 150th anniversary, calling it a moment to reflect on blessings and begin a new chapter. Drawing from Leviticus, she encouraged strengthening bonds with God and one another, expressing hope that these blessings would extend to future generations.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Mhasino K Metha and Visako Rino, invocation by pastor, Baptist Church Chümoukedima Village, Rev L Shüya, and opening remarks by president, CPO, Zhato Kimho.
Those who also addressed the gathering included– Thejao Vihienuo president of Angami Public Organisation; Kheto Zhimomi president Western Sümi Hoho, A. Ernest Sephe president Zeme Council, Kenilo Rengma president Rengma Naga Peoples’ Council and Chabi Kumar Mech president Kachari Tribal Council. Special numbers were presented by Medziphema Village Youth Organization and cultural items by Chümoukedima circle CPO.