SENAPATI: The 38th commemoration of the infamous Operation Bluebird (1987), also known as “Onae Reh Dah” (The Great Battle of Oinam), was observed at SM Sha Hall, Rikhumai Taphou, Tahamzam, Senapati, on Thursday. The programme was organised by the Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) and hosted by the Poumai Naga Union (PNU).
The commemorative event brought together leaders of Naga civil society organisations, church leaders, student bodies and members of the public to remember the victims of Operation Bluebird and reflect on the continued pursuit of justice, peace and human rights.
The gathering observed a one-minute silence in memory of those who lost their lives during Operation Bluebird. Another minute of silence was observed in honour of the six Naga civilians who were recently killed amid the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
Delivering the welcome address, PNU General Secretary said the commemoration was not only about remembering a painful chapter in history but also about honouring the courage, sacrifice and resilience of those who endured the military operation. “Let us reflect with respect, renew our commitment to human rights, and ensure that history is never forgotten,” he said.
A testimonial was shared by P. K. Khailang, who was serving as the headmaster of Oinam during the 1987 operation. Recounting his personal experiences, he narrated the hardships endured by the villagers and the atrocities he witnessed during the military operation, providing a firsthand account of one of the darkest chapters in the region’s history.
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In his message, Samson Remei, Convenor of the Working Committee, United Naga Council (UNC), said the suffering inflicted on Oinam and nearly 30 neighbouring villages had become “an indelible part of Naga history” and lamented that justice had remained elusive even after nearly four decades.
“Though justice has not been delivered, we must continue to raise this issue at regional, national and international human rights platforms until justice is finally conceded,” he said, while expressing hope that the ongoing Naga peace process and the Framework Agreement signed on August 3, 2015, would lead to an honourable and lasting solution.
In a solidarity message, the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) representatives described the commemoration as “not merely a remembrance of a painful chapter in our history, but a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility to uphold truth, justice, dignity and the aspirations of the Naga people.”
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The NSF also paid tribute to the victims and urged Nagas to remain united, saying, “The sacrifices of our forefathers remind us that the survival of a people depends upon their ability to remain united during times of adversity.”
The programme also featured solidarity songs commemorating Operation Bluebird, and prayers led by church leaders
