Senapati, June 19: The 11th Remembrance Day, a tribute to the martyrs, was held at ANSAM Memorial Park, Kapaam (Komlathabi), in Chandel district. The event began with the laying of wreaths by various Naga civil society organizations.
In his welcome address, Ruwnglar Elly Anal, President of the Naga Students Union, Chandel, paid tribute to the fallen heroes and urged the ANSAM team to beautify the park. M. Luikang Luckson, President of ANSAM, stated that the martyrs’ sacrifices, made without fear for the cause of the people’s rights, have sustained their journey and defended the people, the land, and their history. Though many martyrs remain nameless and faceless, their bravery is honored. The student leader emphasized remembering these heroes and their contributions on this day. Mentioning the names of nine martyrs, the ANSAM President affirmed that their stories will always remain in the hearts of the Nagas, providing strength and courage to protect the people, their rights, land, history, and identity without fear.
The eulogy of the nine martyrs, including Shelley Chara (1958-1995), Ng. Sani (1920-1998), Ashun R. Jangvei (1961-1998), Namthiurei Abonmei (1966-2005), Gemcliff V Zimik (1972-2007), Neli Chakho (1990-2010), Dikho Loshou (1990-2010), Mayopam Ramror (1979-2014), and Ramkashing Vashi (1988-2014), was read out during the program.
Guest speaker Sulanthung Lotha, President of Naga Hoho, stated that the day is celebrated annually on June 19 to honor the brave souls who sacrificed their lives for the people. He emphasized that Martyr’s Day is not only about remembering great leaders but also about paying tribute to the men and women who lost their lives in the struggle. Their dedication to the Naga Nation is immeasurable, and the people owe them a debt of gratitude. The day serves as a reminder of the struggles and hardships faced by freedom fighters and renews the commitment towards the nation.
Martyr’s Day encourages the Naga people to uphold the values of justice, democracy, and independence, reminding them of the price paid for liberty. As young Naga citizens, it is the responsibility of all to uphold the values and ideals that the martyrs fought for, striving to build a better and more prosperous Naga where every citizen can live with dignity and freedom, stated Naga Hoho President.
Solidarity messages from the Naga Students Federation (NSF), United Naga Council (UNC), Naga Mothers Association (NMA), Naga Women’s Union (NWU), and Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) were delivered at the gathering. Rev. Shonnai Saka, President of the Chandel Naga Christian Forum (CNCF), blessed the martyrs’ families through prayer, and gifts were presented to the families by ANSAM.