NNC president Thepuswuyi S Keyho reiterated that the Naga National Council and Federal Government of Nagaland (NNC/FGN) unequivocally uphold the sacred sanctity of the Naga plebiscite. He said this while speaking at the celebration of Naga Plebiscite Day organised by Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and supported by various Naga political groups (NPGs), apex civil society organisations (CSOs), tribal hohos and the Church at the NBCC Convention Centre, Kohima on Naga Plebiscite Day on May 16, 2024.
Keyho in a press note said that the purpose of attending the programme was to accurately present the history of Naga people and their collective struggle for sovereignty and independence, with the aim of uniting all Naga groups under this common truth.
He reiterated the NNC’s commitment to not to endorse any solution that deviated from the truth, specifically emphasising the pursuit of full sovereignty and independence, as declared on August 14, 1947 and validated by the Naga Voluntary Plebiscite held on May 16, 1951.
He said by participating in the Plebiscite Day celebration, the NNC/FGN aligned itself with the broader movement for Naga rights and sovereignty, while contributing to the efforts aimed at reconciliation and unity among the Naga people.
Keyho also reiterated solidarity with the broader Naga community and support collective efforts toward achieving common goals, and mobilise public support and raise awareness about the ongoing issues and aspirations of the Naga people among the wider community and the international audience.
He said the celebration commemorated a significant historical event in Naga history, recognising the importance of the 1951 plebiscite in the Naga struggle for sovereignty. Calling for promoting unity and reconciliation among various Naga factions and groups, Keyho said the NNC’s presence at the event signalled a commitment to working together with other Naga organisations that recognised the Naga Voluntary Plebiscite of May 16, 1951. He also reaffirmed the identity, rights, and aspirations of the Naga people for self-determination as expressed in the plebiscite.