Senapati, Aug 27: The 76th Naga Martyrs Day was marked by poignant tributes and a strong call for unity at Mao Gate today. Leaders from various Naga civil society organizations (CSOs) gathered to honor the sacrifices made by the martyrs and to emphasize the need for unity among the Naga people.
Wreaths were laid at the monolith site, Island, Mao Gate, by representatives from organizations including the Naga Hoho, United Naga Council, Naga Students Federation, Naga Mothers Association, Naga Women’s Union, All Naga Students Association (Manipur), Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (South), Tenyime People’s Organization, Naga People Organization, Senapati District Students Association, Senapati District Women’s Association, Mao Council, Mao National Workers, Mao Students Union, Mao Naga Women’s Welfare Association, Kalinamei Village Authority and Punanamei Village Authority.
At the main program held at Punanamei Community Hall, N. Athikho, President of the Mao Council, delivered a keynote address reflecting on the historical significance of August 27, 1948. He recounted the sacrifices made by the Mao people and leaders from other communities, who stood against the political oppression of their time. Athikho highlighted that prior to British arrival, the Naga people of Manipur were independent, governed neither by their own systems nor by the British Crown.
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In February 1946, the Naga National League was established with the objective of uniting the Nagas of Manipur with their counterparts separated by colonial boundaries. Following the transfer of political authority to the Maharaja of Manipur on August 15, 1947, without the consent of the Naga people, the League declared that the Nagas of Manipur could not remain under Meitei rule. They argued that it would be impossible to preserve their culture, traditions, customary laws, and political practices if the Nagas and their land were divided and subjected to different governance. Consequently, the Naga National League expressed a strong desire for the Nagas of Manipur to merge with the Naga Hills District of Assam. This led to the boycott of the electoral roll preparations and the first legislative assembly elections in Manipur by the Nagas of Manipur.
Subsequently, the Naga National League initiated a “No Tax Campaign” during Maharaj Kumar Priyobrata Singh’s tenure as Chief Minister. This campaign, led by A. Daiho Mao, President, and N. Modoli Poumai, General Secretary of the Naga National League, saw significant participation from leaders such as Rishang Keishing of Tangkhul, Mathiuhom of Zeliangrong, Gaikhangam of Zeliangrong, Ng. Mono of Monsang, among others. Under the League’s leadership, the Nagas of Manipur refused to pay their annual House Tax to the Government of Manipur, opting instead to submit their tax payments to the Deputy Commissioner (Charles Pawsey) of Naga Hills in Assam at Kohima. This act of defiance led to the arrest of A. Daiho and N. Modoli, along with other leaders, by a combined force of the Manipur Police and Assam Rifles. In response to the arrests, the Assam Rifles opened fire on the protesters, resulting in the immediate deaths of three individuals and severe injuries to four others on August 27, 1948. Numerous other male and female volunteers, including students, sustained injuries from bullets, rifle butts, lathis, and baton charges by the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police during that tragic day.
The President of the Mao Council, N. Athikho, emphasized that the profound aspiration of the Naga people, both within India and abroad, remains a unified existence under a single administrative framework. He highlighted the ongoing desire to overcome minor differences and work collectively towards this goal. Athikho called for a renewed focus on unity, urging the Naga people to foster genuine affection for one another and to create peace where it is lacking. In an ever-evolving world, he stressed the importance of not living in isolation but rather embracing tolerance, building cordial relationships, and understanding each other’s needs.
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In his solidarity message, Ng. Lorho, President of the United Naga Council (UNC), reflected on the enduring impact of the sacrifices made by the three martyrs 76 years ago. He noted that their legacy and the political vision they championed continue to resonate deeply with the Naga people. Lorho reaffirmed that their sacrifice remains a powerful symbol of the Naga people’s ongoing quest for unity and self-determination.
The anti-tax movement launched by the Naga people is a significant manifestation of their discontent and opposition to the repressive taxation measures imposed by the Manipur government. The act of not paying taxes represents not just a financial defiance but also a more general opposition to governmental policies aimed at undermining traditional customs, autonomy, and the well-established system of self-governance, as well as the Naga’s political struggle, he said.
He also mentioned that the campaign had significant ramifications since it showed how the Naga people were becoming more and more dissatisfied and willing to use civil disobedience to stand up for their rights and secure the Nagas in Manipur, to merge with the Naga Hills District at that time.
On August 27, 1948, the foundation for the Nagas’ right to self-determination was forged through the ultimate sacrifices of Asiisii Hepuni from Punanamei village, Mahriili Lohrii, and Madoli Kholi from Kalinamei village. Their martyrdom, along with the sacrifices of two other volunteers, Daikho Hesho of Chaiwanamai Khullen and Obow Adani of Punanamei village, who later succumbed to their injuries, remains a poignant reminder of their commitment. Their martyrdom had renewed the hope for a future of the Nagas, he stated.
Reflecting on the countless honorable souls who have sacrificed their lives, the President questioned how one can overlook the profound political and historical context of their struggles. He emphasized that the safeguards and aspirations set by our ancestors should not be disregarded, as their sacrifices are the bedrock of our present and future. The blood, tears, and vision of these martyrs must remain etched in our collective memory as they form the essence of our identity and aspirations.
In honoring these heroes, the President called for a swift and meaningful resolution to the Indo-Naga political issue, urging the Government of India to demonstrate genuine political will and commitment. He stressed the need for a logical and peaceful settlement based on the Framework Agreement to avoid further harm. The UNC President also highlighted the importance of unity, love, cooperation, and mutual understanding in forging a hopeful future. By working together, he believes we can build on the greatest aspects of our past and create a cohesive and prosperous future.
In his address, Naga Hoho President Sulanthang Humtsoe emphasized the urgent need for repentance and spiritual renewal, urging the people to return to their Christian faith and unite as one community. He condemned the various factions operating in Nagaland, lamenting the tragic loss of countless lives due to internal conflicts and factional violence.
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Humtsoe honored the martyrs who gave their lives for the cause of the Naga people, acknowledging their bravery and patriotism. Their sacrifices, he said, should serve as a powerful reminder of the need for unity and collective strength. The President called for an end to divisive actions and appealed for a united front, urging all Nagas to set aside differences and work together for progress. He added that the Naga Hoho appeals for peace and unity among the Nagas in order to move forward in progress.
The President of the Naga Mother’s Association paid heartfelt tribute to the fallen martyrs, honoring the visionary leaders who sacrificed so much for future generations. She urged the Naga people to unite and stand together for the advancement and unity of the Naga nation.
The event concluded with a one-minute silent prayer in honor of the martyrs and a musical performance by Padma Shree awardee Guru Reuben Mashangva, which added a moving touch to the commemorations.
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