‘Naga peoples’ promotion of peace an admirable desire much needed now’

Battle of Kohima ‘Remembrance Day’ held

Our Correspondent
Kohima | November 12 

The global ‘Remembrance Day’ took place today at Kohima War Cemetery, Commonwealth War Graves Commission, to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace, justice, and freedom in the Battle of Kohima in 1944 during World War II.

In his special address British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr Andrew Fleming thanked Nagaland’s Chief Minister and Nagaland state government for hosting this special event to mark the 80th anniversary of Remembrance Day since the Battle of Kohima.

“The Commonwealth War Graves Association assisted by the Nagaland State government do a remarkable job in the maintenance and upkeep of this final resting place for so many heroes,” he said.

And so, Dr. Fleming said, we gather to remember today not only those who fell but all who participated in this historic battle and undoubtedly lived with the memories.

“Lest we forget – such a short phrase, but three very powerful words. I was moved by Chief Minister Rio’s words about the Naga of peoples promotion of peace, an admirable and worthy desire much needed in the current times,” he said.

Also appreciating the corporation and support of the Nagaland government, he said “This is my second visit to the state. I shall return again in just three weeks for the happier occasion that is the Hornbill Festival where I am delighted that the Welsh government are to be a country partner.”

“We stand together this morning at the iconic Kohima War Cemetery, on this solemn occasion of Remembrance Day, to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace, justice, and freedom,” said Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

Rio thanked Dr. Andrew Fleming, for being the initiative behind this morning’s program and for taking all necessary steps to ensure that “we partner with the British High Commission and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, in the observance of this global event here in Kohima.”

This Kohima War Cemetery, located in Nagaland’s state capital Kohima, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this battle, Rio said.

We are reminded not only of the precious lives lost but also of the spirit of resilience that this place embodies, he said.

Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is the resting place of 1,420 Allied soldiers, and also the place where 917 Hindu and Sikh soldiers were cremated according to their faith, Rio  said.

The Chief Minister said that seventy-nine years ago, the people of this land witnessed one of the fiercest battles of World War II—the Battle of Kohima.

“It was here that Allied and Indian forces joined hands in a courageous stand, halting the advance of enemy forces and shifting the tides of war. The battle scars remain etched in these hills, but they serve as symbols of bravery, sacrifice, and unity that still resonate with us every day,” Rio said.

“Today, as we observe the two-minute silence, we reflect on the lives of the men and women who are laid to rest here, those who were cremated, as well as the countless others whose sacrifices have gone unrecorded. We honor the contributions not only of the Allied soldiers but also of the Naga people, whose support, endurance, and valor were integral to the success of that fateful battle. These men and women were ordinary people who, through extraordinary circumstances, became symbols of hope and resilience,” Rio said.

The Chief Minister informed that a few days ago, Member of the British Parliament, Alan Gimmell, acknowledged on the floor of the House of Commons, the role and contributions of the Naga people in the victory of this historic battle.

“It was clash of world powers in a far-away land; a war that caused devastation and unimaginable hardships. But today, generations later, 8 decades on, we hold our heads high, in memory of our earlier generations, for selflessly sacrificing for the good of freedom and the victory of democracy,” Rio said.

For all times to come, Rio said, Kohima will remain etched on the annals of history.

Even as we recollect the times of war and violence, the present times have greatly changed. War has taught us the value of peace, unity and oneness, he said adding that the Naga people have converted the experience of violence into a message for global peace.

We observe the memories of the battle to spread the message of peace and love, he said adding  “Every year, we hold the 2nd World War Peace Rally to tell the world that peace is the only way forward for all of humanity.”

We are bringing those who once fought against each other under the common agenda of Global Peace, Rio said.

“Today, let us reaffirm our gratitude to those who serve and protect our nations. Let us carry forward the legacy of those who rest here by building a world that values peace and unity above all else,” he said adding that  Kohima and the Naga people will continue to play a contributory role for the good of humanity.

This is our commitment for now and for all times to come, he said.

The programme was chaired by Nagaland’s home commissioner Vyasan while Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima led prayer.

The programme also witnessed band performances by Assam Rifles Band and Nagaland Police Brass band, welcome song by Nagaland Madrigal singers, wreath laying by dignitaries and guests and flagging off of Vintage Car Rally (Nagaland Flatfenders Club).