Ukhrul, May 16: The Naga Plebiscite Day was observed in Ukhrul on Friday, to remember the historic 1951 vote in which Nagas overwhelmingly chose independence. The event brought together a wide spectrum of Naga society to reaffirm the collective decision made 74 years ago, where 99.9% of the Naga population voted to remain a free and independent nation. The commemoration featured speeches from leaders of the NSCN, solidarity hymns, church prayers, and a renewed call for recognition of Nagalim’s unique history and right to self-determination.
Organised by the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) and hosted by the Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong, the programme took place at the Town Hall in Ukhrul District Headquarters, beginning at 10:30 AM. The event saw the presence of constituent units, senior leaders of the association, representatives from UNC, NWU, NPMHR-S, tribe hohos, women’s organisations, district apex bodies, Naga churches, politicians, social activists, intellectuals, and well-wishers.
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Key figures who addressed the gathering included Eno. Kraibo Chawang, Member of the Collective Leadership of NSCN/GPRN, and Eno. RH. Raising, Special Emissary of the Collective Leadership. The commemoratory host was Eno. NG Lorho, President of the United Naga Council (UNC). Other special guests included Eno. Samson Jajo, Kilonser of NSCN/GPRN and caretaker CAO of WTR, Inoli Priscilla Thiumai, President of the Naga Women’s Union (NWU), and Eno. Joyson Mazamo, Convenor of the NPMHR-S.
The programme opened with a solidarity hymn presented by the Masot Khon Team, followed by an invocation from Rev. Ayonsui Shingnaisui, Pastor of Meizailung Baptist Church. The Chief Commemoratory Guest hoisted the Naga National Flag, symbolising continued resistance and national pride. Eno. Ramreichan Keishing, President of Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong, delivered the welcome address, which was followed by the presidential address by Eno. Th. Angteshang Maring, President of ANSAM. He reiterated the historical and political importance of the 1951 plebiscite, asserting that Nagalim was never a part of India or Myanmar, either by conquest or consent.
Throughout the venue, powerful slogans were displayed, including “Nagalim for Christ,” “Respect the Letter & Spirit of the Framework Agreement,” “Go Back! Forced Occupation from Nagalim,” “Repeal AFSPA,” and “Dignity as a People, Only in Free Nagalim.” These slogans reflected the continued sentiment of resistance and aspiration for freedom among the Naga people.
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The commemoratory messages from speakers also recalled the Amsterdam Joint Communiqué of July 11, 2002, which recognised the unique history and situation of the Nagas, and the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015, signed on the foundation of “shared sovereignty” between the Government of India and the NSCN. Both agreements were cited as reaffirmations of Nagalim’s historical and political stand.
The programme concluded with an interaction hour and expressions of gratitude from Eno. Isaac Charenamei, General Secretary of ANSAM. The benediction was delivered by Rev. Dr. Ephraim Shaiza, Pastor of Phungyo Baptist Church, and the closing hymn “How Great Thou Art” was sung by all in solidarity. As the gathering dispersed, one message rang clear and unified from the speeches, songs, and slogans—Kuknalim, long live Nagalim, and long live the Naga people’s struggle for dignity and nationhood.