DELHI/UKHRUL: The Naga Students’ Union Delhi (NSUD) observed the 80th Naga Independence Day at Dwaar Centre, Delhi, on August 14, bringing together more than 100 students, intellectuals, activists, representatives of Naga organisations and well-wishers.
The commemoration, as per NSUD, focused on historical remembrance, the Naga political movement, the preservation of Naga identity and the responsibilities of the younger generation.
NSUD president Chipika Zhimomi, in his welcome address, stressed the importance of historical consciousness in understanding the present and shaping the future. He said Naga identity and the aspiration for self-determination had been carried across generations and emphasised the role of Naga organisations in keeping the spirit of the movement alive among the younger generation.
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Ningreichon Tungshang of the Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) highlighted the spiritual dimension of the Naga national movement and urged young activists to maintain a connection between political engagement and spiritual conviction.
She also said Naga Independence Day should go beyond an annual ceremonial observance and be reflected in the everyday conduct, values and responsibilities of the Naga people.
Dr. Pou of the Global Naga Forum (GNF) said the commemoration should not be viewed as antagonistic towards any nation or state, but as an affirmation of the Naga people’s right to exist as a people and to pursue their collective rights and aspirations.
He recalled the declaration of Naga independence by the Naga National Council on August 14, 1947, saying it had entrusted subsequent generations with the responsibility of safeguarding the land, preserving collective identity and pursuing a self-determined future.
The keynote address traced the evolution of the Naga national movement, from the formation of the Naga Club and its memorandum to the Simon Commission to the establishment of the Naga National Council and the declaration of independence on August 14, 1947.
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It also touched upon the Naga Plebiscite, the underground government, the political and armed struggle under AZ Phizo, and the later emergence and fragmentation of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).
The prevailing situation in Manipur was cited as one of the contemporary challenges facing the Naga people. The speaker also expressed concern over the continuing fragmentation among the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) and called for the groups to work towards a common or shared programme to safeguard broader Naga interests.
The keynote address further called for vigilance on issues such as the Free Movement Regime (FMR), preservation of Naga languages, traditions and cultural practices, ethical conduct, professional excellence and greater unity and solidarity among the Naga people.
The programme, moderated by H. Asaziia Krichena, also featured musical performances, while NSUD general secretary Yurngam A. Shimray delivered the vote of thanks.
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