Along with the rest of the state, Naga National Council (NNC) Lotha Region, Naga Students’ Federation and Dimapur Naga Students’ Union celebrated 79th Naga Independence Day on Thursday in different venues.
NNC Lotha Region
The Naga National Council (NNC) Lotha Region commemorated Naga Independence Day at the Lotha Hoho Conference Hall in Wokha, reaffirming its commitment to the ongoing political struggle for Naga sovereignty.
The programme commenced with the hoisting of the Naga flag by NNC Lotha Region president Ekyimthung Patton. The event was graced by NNC general secretary (Parent Body) V. Nagi, who delivered a keynote address urging unity among “genuine Naga national workers and civil society organisations” to achieve a conclusive resolution to the 79-year-long political movement.
In his speech, Nagi honoured Naga martyrs and called upon the international community, particularly the United Kingdom, to acknowledge its colonial-era role in dividing Naga land and support the restoration of Naga sovereignty. He expressed appreciation to the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples’ Organisation (UNPO) for raising the Naga issue at the recent United Nations session in Geneva, describing it as a significant step in amplifying the Naga voice globally.
Recalling the 75th Naga National Plebiscite Day held on May 16, 2025, at Khuochiezie, Kohima, Nagi said the united gathering reaffirmed the Naga people’s sovereign right. He emphasized that Nagas are “one race, one identity, one history, and one homeland,” rejecting any form of division.
The NNC Lotha Region also appealed to Nagaland’s apex bodies, civil society organisations, and the general public to critically evaluate and support the most meaningful path forward for the Naga nation. It urged reflection on key milestones including the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015; the Agreed Position of November 17, 2017; the first sovereignty talks held in Delhi (1964–1967); and the 1975 Shillong Accord.
Raising concerns over illegal immigration, Nagi alleged that outsiders have contributed to social crimes and land encroachment, calling for decisive action to safeguard Naga territories. He further described the freedom struggle as “deeply spiritual” and guided by divine purpose, urging continued unity and resilience in pursuit of sovereignty.
(Correspondent)
Naga Students’ Federation
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) commemorated the 79th Naga Independence Day with a solemn, reaffirming its commitment to the Naga people’s aspirations for self-determination and unity.
The event began with the ceremonial hoisting of the Naga flag by senior leader of NSF, Joseph Ngouri, symbolizing the enduring spirit and identity of the Naga people. The gathering was marked by reflections on the historical significance of the day and the sacrifices made by past generations in pursuit of Naga sovereignty.
Delivering the keynote message, NSF general secretary Chumben Khuvung emphasized that the Naga struggle is not merely a political movement but a quest for dignity, justice and recognition. “Our rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions are the foundation of our strength,” he stated, urging the youth to uphold the values of bravery and unity instilled by their ancestors.
Khuvung further called upon the community to envision a future where every Naga can thrive in peace and prosperity, stressing that the journey ahead must be rooted in collective effort and unwavering commitment to the Naga cause.
In his concluding remarks, assistant general secretary Kenilo Kent paid tribute to the visionary leaders and martyrs whose sacrifices have shaped the Naga journey. He urged attendees not to treat the day as a mere celebration but as a renewed call to action. “The path to a definite Naga future lies not only in political negotiations but in building bridges of trust and understanding,” Kent said.
Dimapur Naga Students’ Union
The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) commemorated the 79th Naga Independence Day with a solemn and purposeful gathering held at the DNSU office. The event brought together office bearers, community elders, well-wishers and members of the public in a show of unity and reflection.
The programme commenced with an invocation by deputy speaker of DNSU, WS Kahor, followed by the ceremonial flag hoisting and welcome address delivered by DNSU president Hinoto P Aomi. Proceedings were chaired by general secretary Michael Kath, with a benediction offered by secretary of Games and Sports Tsuktilong Jamir.
A keynote address was delivered by Kevitho Kera, a prominent member of the Global Naga Forum (GNF), who invoked the legacy of the 1929 Naga memorandum to the Simon Commission. Kera urged attendees to embrace a unified Naga identity beyond regional affiliations, stating, “We are one and we should always be one.”
He acknowledged the efforts and sacrifices of Naga political groups and expressed optimism for future unity, saying, “I know when the time comes Nagas will unite and I have a strong belief in that.” Emphasizing non-violence as a powerful tool, Kera drew parallels with India’s Gandhian legacy and envisioned a peaceful mass movement: “When lakhs of Nagas rise up peacefully and non-violently, India will be clueless on how to respond.”
Kera concluded with a rallying call to preserve Naga identity and autonomy, “Leave us alone to determine for ourselves as in ancient times. Ura Uvie and Kuknalim!”
DNSU extended its gratitude to all participants and reaffirmed its commitment to the Naga cause, calling for continued unity and determination in shaping the future of the Naga people.