Nagas weakened by ‘othering’ each other

FNR commemorates 73rd Naga Plebiscite Day

Morung Express News
Kohima | May 17

To commemorate the 73rd Naga Plebiscite of May 16, 1951, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) organized a day of prayer and thanksgiving at the NBCC Convention Centre, Kohima on Thursday. The event was attended by leaders and representatives from various Naga political parties, and civil society organizations and the public from different parts of the state.

FNR Convenor, Rev Dr Wati Aier highlighted the significance of the day in Naga history stating that the plebiscite was a conscientious effort to safeguard the historical and political rights of the Naga people.  “The story of the plebiscite holds an abiding significance in Naga history. The very rationale for us being here today is this ‘abiding significance,’” he stated.

Observing the prevailing discontent and disillusionment within the Nagas, attributing it to a loss of belief of a possible ‘Naga future,’ he called for a collective reorientation towards a renewed spirit of unity and solidarity that transcends the immediate circumstances created by individuals and groups.

He emphasised on the need to honestly confront the present state within the Naga family that has conditioned the Nagas in opposition to others. Though Nagas are ‘weakened’ by the process of ‘othering’ each other, Rev Aier asserted that Nagas are not ‘destroyed.’

The socio-political disruptions within the Nagas has ironically created a ‘humanity of hurts and opposed, which, he said calls for forming solidarity with each other.

Meanwhile, drawing the attention of the young Naga generation, Rev Aier called for a concerted effort to harness the inherent altruism and potential within Naga youth underscoring the importance of nurturing a sense of belonging and common purpose among the youth to address pressing challenges.

Terming hope as a priceless treasure, he urged the Nagas to embrace hope as a catalyst for reconciliation, cooperation, and progress towards a future characterised by peace, freedom, and mutual respect.

NMA calls for unity and reconciliation
Presenting the ‘collective Naga voice,’ Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) President, Vilanuo Yhome appealed to the Naga political groups to embrace peace and reconciliation, and to rededicate themselves to the collective Naga cause. 

“To our leaders of the Naga political groups, we appeal for peace and reconciliation and a rededication to the spirit of Nagas as one people beyond all borders and manmade boundaries,” stated Yhome.

Acknowledging the sacrifices and suffering the Naga people have endured over the years, with thousands of lives lost, Yhome recalled ‘the Naga struggle since then, has seen much bloodshed, torture, rape, and killings, as we still firmly carry the torch for the freedom, we all hold so dear.’

To this end, she called upon all to remember the long years of the Naga struggle and keep the flame of freedom alive in their hearts. “Today, we, as mothers appeal to our younger generation, our children and our children’s children, to remember the long years of the Naga struggle and keep the flame alive in your hearts till we see the freedom we have yearned for,” Yhome said.

‘Draw inspiration from the miracle 1951 plebiscite’
Kedallo, NNC/FGN & Co-Convenor, WC, NNPGs, Zhopra Vero reflecting on the significance and legacy of the historic event, described it as “Exodus experience of the Nagas.” He said “it was the Kairos moment for the Nagas, God’s appointed time for us, a decisive moment that was destined to change in the history of the Naga people forever.”

Vero acknowledged the sacrifices and hardships the Naga people have endured in its struggle for freedom, stating that the choice they made was “costly” but not a mistake. However, he also reminded the Nagas as to where it is headed to seventy-three years down the line.

Meanwhile, expressing concern on the contemporary challenges facing the Nagas today, including the ‘dividing walls among us,’ Vero wondered if these challenges are an indication of changing political realities.

He expressed hope that Naga people should draw inspiration from the miracle that happened in 1951 ‘The Naga Plebiscite’ and take corrective and pragmatic measures to forge a collective identity and destiny.

‘Journey towards self-determination far from over’
Member of the Collective Leadership of NSCN/GPRN, Rev A Puni in his speech described the Naga plebiscite as a ‘pivotal moment in the history of the Naga people’ – a significant chapter for Nagas in the relentless pursuit of self-determination and the preservation of ‘our’ unique identity as people and ‘our’ political rights.

He praised the visionary leadership of AZ Phizo, who spearheaded the plebiscite, stating that ‘had it not been his leadership, Nagas would be under India having no legitimacy to claim our unique history.’ Describing Phizo as a ‘great leader,’ Rev Puni said, his name will be hailed by every generation.

Acknowledging the sacrifices made by the Naga pioneers who fought for the rights and freedom of the Naga people, Rev Puni, however, reminded that the journey towards self-determination is far from over, and said that Nagas must remain steadfast in its resolve to a build a society where every Naga can live in dignity, equality and respect.

“Let us also renew our commitment for freedom. Together, let us strive for a future where every community can thrive in dignity and freedom,” urged Rev Puni and hope that this will serve as a reminder of the resolute spirit of the Naga people journey towards a prosperous future for all.

Speeches of Gen Niki Sumi (Retd), President, NSCN/GPRN and Wangtin Naga, President, NSCN/GPRN- Reformation was read out by representatives from their respective party, while several leaders from the Naga political groups also spoke on the occasion.