Naga Students’ Federation members paying tribute during the 33rd Martyrs’ Day held at the NSF Martyrs’ Park in Kohima on March 20. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Kohima | March 20
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) observed the 33rd Martyrs’ Day at the NSF Martyrs’ Park in Kohima on Wednesday. The event is organized annually by the NSF as a mark of honour and remembrance of late Vikhozo Yhoshü and late Kekuojalie Sachü, the victims of indiscriminate firing by state police forces on March 20, 1986, while on the call of duty of the federation.
Speaking on the occasion, NSF general secretary, Imtiyapang Imsong paid rich tributes to the student martyrs, acknowledging their sacrifice for the cause of the Nagas during a peaceful protest called by the NSF in Kohima against the government’s decision to introduce Indian Police Service (IPS) cadre in Nagaland and the extension of the Disturbed Area Belt from 5 km to 20 km along the Indo-Myanmar, the then Burma, border.
He narrated that although Vikhozo and Kekuojalie are no more with us, their supreme sacrifice will continue to lead the Naga people in general and the student body in particular. “As the younger generation in the federation, we reiterate that we will take forward the legacy and the sacrifice that they have made. We are ready to fight and protect the cause and the rights of the Naga people,” he added.
Earlier, Kohima Ao Baptist Church youth evangelist, Bendangsunep pronounced a prayer while NSF president, Kesosul Christopher Ltu led the student leaders in laying wreaths on the graves of the martyrs. The programme was attended by officials of the NSF and its federating units, and the relatives of the two victims.
As a mark of respect to the departed souls, the federation flew its tricolored flag at half-mast on the commemorative day.
