Senapati, October 29: In a historic and deeply emotional moment, a sea of Nagas from across Manipur, Nagaland, and beyond converged at the Senapati District Headquarters to accord a grand civic reception to the Ato Kilonser of NSCN/GPRN, Thuingaleng Muivah, who set foot on his birthplace after more than five decades. The event, organised by the United Naga Council (UNC) and hosted by the Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), turned Senapati into a vibrant tapestry of colors as thousands adorned in traditional Naga attires filled the stadium with songs, cheers, and tears of pride. Th. Muivah, accompanied by senior NSCN officials, arrived at Senapati this morning to a rousing welcome at the helipad by representatives of UNC, NPO, NWU, Tribe Hohos, and various civil bodies. Students and cultural troupes lined the streets forming human chains embodying the spirit of unity and reverence for the legendary leader. Delegates from across Naga-inhabited areas and other states attended the reception, marking a rare moment of collective pride and solidarity. To commemorate the occasion, a monolith donated by the Maram Union was unveiled by Lt. Gen. (Retd.) V.S. Atem, Deputy Ato Kilonser (GPRN). Presentations to the Naga Legendary leader from 21 tribe presidents, CSOs and organisations, jubilant Choir presentations from Poumai Naga choir, Mao Baptist Churches Association Youth Choir, Makuilongdi Lun Choir and Maram Naga Choir also marked the grand historic Civic Reception at Tahamzam. In a poignant gesture, the families of Neli Chakho and Dikho Loshuo, two martyrs who laid down their lives at Mao Gate on May 6, 2010, while waiting to welcome Muivah, were honoured on stage. Gifts were presented to them by the lady of Muivah. The atmosphere at the Senapati Stadium resonated with hope, pride, and an unyielding spirit of Naga nationalism, signifying not just the homecoming of a leader, but the reaffirmation of a people’s shared journey for peace, dignity, and sovereignty.
Full Speech of Th. Muivah, Ato Kilonser and Chief Political Negotiator, NSCN/GPRN, at Senapati
Addressing the gathering, Th. Muivah, Ato Kilonser, GPRN called as his beloved countrymen of Senapati and Southern Nagalim. He stated his happiness to meet the people of the region on the day through the unwavering support, love and prayers for him and the Naga nation. Ato Kilonser urged the gathering not to forget the Naga history, adding “The Nagas are not lost people.” Th.Muivah asserted to bring an honourable Indo-Naga Political solution based on the framework agreement. Muivah sought the cooperation of all in prayer. Through love and forgiveness, he urged to build up the nation again. Meanwhile, a message from NSCN/GPRN Ato Kilonser and Chief Negotiator Thuingaleng Muivah, was read out by Deputy Ato Kilonser V.S. Atem, reaffirming the Naga people’s unwavering commitment to sovereignty and the Framework Agreement.
In his address, Muivah expressed deep gratitude to the Naga people from the southern regions for their sacrifices in defending Naga sovereignty and upholding their right to self-determination. He paid homage to historic Naga leaders and martyrs, including Haipou Jadonang, and highlighted the contributions of freedom fighters from various regions who laid down their lives for the Naga cause.
Must read | Tears and Joy as Thuingaleng Muivah Returns to His Birthplace, Somdal Village
The NSCN leader condemned decades of “oppression and human rights violations” in Nagalim under Indian and Myanmar military rule, alleging atrocities such as torture, rape, and killings. He cited the Oting incident of December 4, 2021, as a recent example of continuing injustice.
Reiterating that the Naga political issue is unique and not an internal matter of India or Myanmar, Muivah emphasized that the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015, and the Amsterdam Joint Communiqué of July 11, 2002, recognized Naga sovereignty, national flag, and constitution. He warned against attempts to distort or undermine these accords, calling such actions a “betrayal” of the Naga cause.
Muivah urged unity among all Nagas across artificial boundaries and cautioned against the “divide and conquer” strategy of the Indian state. He reaffirmed that the NSCN would never compromise on the principles of Naga national flag and constitution, describing them as “non-negotiable.”
Concluding his message, Muivah invoked divine guidance, asserting faith in God’s protection and justice, and called upon the Naga people to remain steadfast in their struggle for peace, sovereignty, and national dignity.
Must read | Nagas Adopt People’s Declaration at Senapati Civic Reception
In a historic gathering at Tahamzam, the Naga people of Manipur made a solemn declaration reaffirming their unwavering support for the leadership of NSCN/GPRN Ato Kilonser and Chief Negotiator, Th. Muivah. The declaration, led by United Naga Council (UNC) President NG Lorho in honour of the veteran Naga leader, reiterated the people’s collective mandate for the NSCN/GPRN to represent Naga interests in the Indo-Naga political talks. It further reaffirmed the Nagas’ commitment to an inclusive, honourable, and acceptable solution based on the Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015, and expressed unity with Nagas everywhere in their shared struggle for self-determination and a common future.
Also read | Honreishang Shadang Appointed New Longvibu of Naga Army