An online event was organised on 6th September, 2024 by the Global Naga Forum (GNF) to commemorate the Matikhrü massacre via zoom. The event began with a prayer by Riejusie Nyusou, local Catechist, St. Michael’s Church, Khimiau village.
Addressing the programme, President of Pochury Institute of Literature (PIL), Akho S. Leyri reflected on the horrors of the massacre. He asserted that in order to achieve the NNC’s resolution of May, 1960 to flush out the Indian army, the Naga home guards attacked the 14th Assam Rifles posted at Thuda, Phor. However, the Naga armies were faced with heavy bombs and gun fires and had to withdraw their attack. Six village leaders from Phor village went to the Assam Rifles to restore peace but were tortured mercilessly and killed. In retaliation, the 16th Punjab Regiment of Indian Army surrounded the Matikhrü village on 6th September, 1960 where they brutally tortured the men in front of their wives and children. Nine village men were beheaded and their bodies were set ablaze and burnt beyond recognition. Leyri, acknowledged the GNF for organizing the event and called for unity among all the Nagas, emphasising the need for reconciliation and work together for the better future of the Nagas.
Also read | Yimkhung Union Kohima Celebrates ‘Tsakran Nyan’ Festival, Honoring Cultural Heritage
President of the Pochury Students’ Union, Jeffrey Leyri reiterated the events of the massacre and paid homage to the martyrs who made sacrifices for the Naga cause. Further on the programme, Rev. Zhihuotho Katiry, who was a survivor of the massacre recounted the fateful day when he was just seven years old. He lost his father that day who succumbed to his injury. He also emphasized that there are many families who underwent similar experience on that fatal September day.
Various organisation including the Naga Hoho, Naga Mother’s Association, Naga Students’ Federation and Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights conveyed the message of solidarity and said that the Nagas remembered the sacrifices made during the Naga’s struggle for self determination particularly on 6th September, 1960 and honored the memories of the martyrs.
Must read | CM N Biren Singh to Resign if Denied Unified Command Authority?
Earlier, Kilentoli Jamir chaired the programme and Chuba Ozukum, Convenor of GNF delivered the welcome address.The event also witnessed special numbers from Pochury Women Organisation, Kohima led by Chiirasa Katiry and from Thotmung Muivah.
Prof. Rosemary Dzuvichu, co-convenor, GNF and Judge of Essay competition and Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, as a judge of Poem recitation announced the winners that was held on 14th August on the occasion of Naga Independence Day. Dr Theyiesinuo expressed her joy and encouraged the children as well as the elders to continue the art of storytelling. Miriam Rengma, the Joint Treasurer of GNF delivered the vote of thanks.
(This is a publication of the Global Naga Forum issued on September 7, 2024)
Must read | FNR-RRAD September Dialogue: Creating a pathway towards the future