Khonoma, Nov 18 (MExN): Lt. T. Sakhrie, the first General Secretary of the Naga National Council (NNC) was today fondly remembered by thousands of people from different walks of life on his 50th death anniversary at his native village Khonoma. Almost all the tribal hohos from Nagaland and Manipur, public leaders, well wishers and villagers thronged ‘Terhotsiese’ at Khonoma to remember the departed leader.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Naga Hoho President, Bendangmayang said that Khonoma village was the architect of the Naga national movement. He appreciated the honesty and patriotic spirit of the Khonoma people. Bendangmayang said that Lt T Sakhrie was an ardent patriot, and if he could have lived longer, the course of the Naga national movement would have been a different one. Bendangmayang added that reconciliation is the solution to the present Naga problem.
Niketu Iralu, President, Initiatives of Change India and International member, who also addressed the gathering said that for the Nagas, “our problem is that in a short time, we have had to learn many things what others have done” and that “We need to sit down and look at what has gone wrong”.
“India is not the right audience, we have seen them enough. We have to talk to the people of India”, Niketu said, adding that it is the people that keeps the country going. Niketu said that the Nagas need to ask, “where did we go wrong yesterday?”
Rev Kari Longchar, who also spoke on the occasion, appreciated the forgiving spirit of Sakhrie clan. “Sakhrie clan has resolved to forgive whosoever is involved. This is the implementation of the principle of Jesus” he said. Rev Longchar also called upon all the Naga leaders to follow the principle of Jesus Christ. “Let this occasion be the beginning of healing and reconciliation” he added.
Angami Public Organization President, Mhiesizokho Zinyu described Lt. T. Sakhrie as a revolutionary poet and freedom fighter who dreamt of a free Nagaland. The APO president also said that Lt Sakhrie was a man who emphasized on what was right and not who was right, and who held non-violence and truth as his weapons. “Violence begets violence. A time has come for Nagas to search our hearts, humble ourselves and forgive one another”, said Mhiesizokho.
The occasion was also marked by an emotional speech from Nilasieto Sakhrie, the son of T. Sakhrie. Remembering all the children of the revolution, he spoke about his family’s pain at the loss of their father, and renewed their pledge to honour and respect the declaration made to the Public Commission of Khonoma.
NSF and NPMHR representatives also spoke on the occasion. The opening remark was made by Peteroko Zetsuvi, Rev Zhabu Terhuja, NBCC General Secretary led the invocation while Lhusi Iralu sang a special number. Hulie Mor offered the vote of thanks.
The occasion was also marked by the unveiling of a commemoration monolith and a community feast.
