Participants of the programme to commemorate the 69th Anniversary of the 1st Indo-Naga Battle.
Hoshepu, September 11 (MExN): The 69th Anniversary of the 1st Indo-Naga Battle was commemorated with a solemn event organized by the Eastern Sumi Students' Union (ESSU) at Hoshepu Village in Aghunato Sub-division. The ceremony featured Medovi Rhi, President of the Naga Students' Federation (NSF), as the Special Guest.
In his address, Medovi Rhi expressed a mix of pride and sorrow, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the battle. He noted that while it pains him to hear about the challenges faced by the Naga people against the Indian Armed Forces, their bravery and commitment to establishing a Sovereign Naga State fill him with pride. He emphasized that these sacrifices remind him of the Naga identity and the tribe's warrior spirit.
HK Zhimomi, former President of the Naga Hoho, highlighted the significance of the battle, describing it as a pivotal moment in the Naga independence movement. He explained that the battle, fought at Khekiye village, is commonly referred to as the Hoshepu battle due to Hoshepu being the mother village. Zhimomi also discussed the term "Free Naga" used by the British to describe the people of the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) and elaborated on the historic visit of Naga leaders A.Z. Phizo, Tolhopu Sumi, and Luzukhu Sumi to the Aghunato area in 1953.
Isak Sumi, Co-Convenor of the Working Committee 7 NNPGS, called for the Naga Students' Federation to elevate the celebration of the event to broader platforms. He urged for a genuine assessment of the various Naga factions and emphasized the ongoing struggle for full liberation, despite the state's current status.
The program was chaired by Inito Yepthomi, Vice President of ESSU. Khushito Awomi, retired AIG Prison, delivered the welcome address, while Kimiyeto Yepthomi, President of ESSU, provided a presidential note. Solidarity messages were shared by Gihuka Zhimomi, President of SKK, and Hutoka Assumi, President of SAKK.
