Marking six decades of its glorious existence, the 60th anniversary of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) was celebrated here on Tuesday with the theme “Embracing Innovation and Celebrating Legacy.”
The event served as a reflection on the Assembly’s journey since Nagaland was created on December 1, 1963, with the first NLA session being held on February 11, 1964.
In his address, Governor La Ganesan reflected on the NLA’s rich history, recalling how, following the first elections in January 1964, the inaugural Assembly convened on February 11, 1964. Since that day, he said the Assembly had served as a pillar of governance, echoing the voices of the people and championing their aspirations.
He noted that the 60-member NLA has long served as a voice for the people and a symbol of unity in its six-decade journey, adding that the Assembly had seen the rise of many visionary leaders dedicated to serving both the state and nation.
He congratulated all past and present legislators, urging them to carry forward the Assembly’s values and build a progressive Nagaland that respected heritage while embracing growth and progress.
In his key note address, chief minister Neiphiu Rio paid tributes to the pioneering leaders and architects of Nagaland who had left an indelible mark on the state’s history. He also acknowledged the presence of former chief ministers Dr SC Jamir and KL Chishi, whose invaluable contributions had greatly enriched the legacy of NLA, lauding their unwavering commitment in shaping the legislative foundation, and fostering the growth and development of Nagaland.
As a tribute to the rich history, Rio announced the renaming of several facilities within the Assembly Secretariat Complex. These facilities would now bear the names of first chief minister P Shilu Ao, and former NLA speakers K Shikhu Sema, C Chongshen Chang, and Vikho-o Yhoshü. He said they had left behind legacies that guided the present leadership. With the renaming, he hoped the present leaders would renew their commitment to upholding their vision and values.
He emphasised the Assembly’s deep-rooted connection to the Naga political issue, highlighting its ongoing role in advocating peace and unity. Since statehood, he claimed the Assembly had consistently addressed this core issue, passing 17 resolutions aimed at fostering inclusive negotiations and peaceful solutions.
Rio noted that the Nagaland Legislators’ Forum had been a crucial facilitator in these efforts, bridging discussions between negotiating parties and engaging with central leaders to advance peace.
He expressed gratitude for the opposition-less government in the 13th and 14th NLAs, uniting all members toward the shared goal of addressing the Naga political issue. He acknowledged the Assembly’s historical stance on Naga integration, emphasising its continued commitment to integrating Naga-inhabited areas, with six resolutions passed since 1964, with the latest in 2018.
Reaffirming the Assembly’s dedication to dignified proceedings, Rio praised its tradition of respectful discourse and law making for public good, reflecting mutual respect among members.
He highlighted the Assembly’s responsibility in holding the state government accountable, with mechanisms such as debates, resolutions, and House Committees serving as pillars of transparency.
In his welcome address, NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, reflected on the assembly’s journey since its inception on February 11, 1964, following Nagaland’s statehood on December 1, 1963. He described the assembly as a cornerstone of governance and representation for the state’s diverse communities.
He emphasized the significant milestones and transformative changes that have marked the assembly’s evolution, noting that it has served as a critical forum for debates, policymaking, and legislative action that have shaped Nagaland’s development.
Lok Sabha member Supongmeren Jamir encouraged the MLAs to work together for addressing pressing issues such as youth unemployment, infrastructure development, and the need for sustainable growth.
State chief secretary Dr J Alam described the Assembly as a cornerstone of Nagaland’s democracy and governance. Reflecting on Nagaland’s creation through the 16-Point Agreement in 1963, he lauded the Assembly’s legacy as the “temple of democracy” where voices of the people found representation and policies were shaped.
Former Nagaland chief minister and former governor of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, and Goa Dr SC Jamir delved into the historic journey that shaped Nagaland. Thanking the speaker for the invitation, he highlighted the profound significance of the NLA’s establishment, describing it as an enduring symbol of Nagaland’s political evolution and perseverance.
Celebrated with great enthusiasm, he stressed that the event was not merely a milestone but a reminder of the critical political events that led to Nagaland’s formation as a state. He traced Nagaland’s complex journey, underscoring the essential role of the NLA in designing a future for the Naga people.
Jamir recounted key milestones, including the formation of the Naga National Council (NNC) in 1946, which envisioned a separate homeland, later recognised as “Nagaland” in 1963 by then President Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
He pointed out that unlike other Indian states established on linguistic grounds, Nagaland was formed through a unique political agreement between the Naga People’s Convention (NPC) and prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru. “Nagaland was created with the precious blood of people,” he pointed out, honouring the sacrifices of those who contributed to the movement.
Shedding light on the name “Nagaland” that was passionately debated in Parliament, he disclosed that Hem Barua, an MP from Assam, proposed the name “Naga Pradesh” instead. However, Nehru upheld the people’s choice, reaffirming the title as Nagaland. Explaining the Assembly’s composition, he said it was decided to set the strength at 60 members to reflect Nagaland’s political aspirations rather than its population size.
Reflecting on the formation of NPC in 1957, Jamir recalled how the Naga people, disillusioned by years of conflict, faced a choice — to surrender and return as a district of Assam or to organise and fight for their identity.
The NPC emerged as a unifying force for the Naga people and led to the historic 16-Point Agreement, which paved the way for Nagaland’s statehood and the enactment of Article 371A, a significant constitutional safeguard for the state.
He urged the Assembly to view this anniversary as a call to confront current realities with courage and clarity. He reminded the members to honour their oath to uphold the Constitution of India and remain true to Nagaland’s core values of integrity and faith. He concluded with a prayer that the NLA would continue to exemplify Naga spirit, guiding the people of Nagaland forward as a beacon of truth and courage within India.
The celebration was chaired by NLA deputy speaker S Toiho Yeptho, while call of grace was pronounced by state chaplain TW Yamyap Konyak.
On behalf of the Ex-Parliamentarian Association of Nagaland (Ex-PAN), president and former deputy speaker Joshua Sumi addressed the gathering. Power and Parliamentary Affairs minister KG Kenye delivered the valedictory address. National anthem was presented by Nourhevilie Khate. A special number was performed by the Nagaland Chamber Choir.
Governor Ganesan released the 60th anniversary souvenir of NLA and chief minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the Botanical Garden named after Lt. T.N Angami, first NLA speaker. ‘A Glimpse of Accomplishments’ a video clip was presented by IPR Department during the event.
The NLA library was also named in honor of the first chief minister late P. Shilu, the Conference Hall was named after former speaker late K. Shikhu, the Committee Room was named in honor of former speaker late C. Chongshen Chang, Training Room named in honor of former speaker late Vikho-o Yhoshu.