KOHIMA SEPT 6: The Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) today commemorated the 42nd Indo-Naga cease-fire day at the Chedema Peace Camp organized by the Chitchat Committee, FGN.
L. Kaiso, Kedallo, FGN, delivered a short speech on ‘significance of the day’ in which he stated that the day has been observed as thanks giving day to God since 1964 as the dawn of peace in Nagaland brought through the guidance of God under the NBCC. He stated that the indo-Naga cease-Fire is historically very significant and is now into the 42nd year of its life following ten years of war between India and Nagaland with the mediation by Nagaland Peace Mission that was set up through a resolution passed in the 3rd convention of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council at Wokha in February 1964. He also said that this was the first of international Cease-Fire agreements signed by the Federal Government of Nagaland and the Government of India on 24th May 1964.He also mentioned that more than one thousand precious lives were lost in Naga resistance against Indian aggression.
He furhter stated that the proposal “A solution within the Indian Union, outside the Indian Constitution” so placed on the table of the Federal Tatar Hoho (FTH) was deliberated and debated at length and that the FTH in session had faithfully turned down the proposal on the ground that Nagas belong to a sovereign independent nation and were not demanding or fighting for any political status with the Indian union. Gradually, talks were elevated to Prime Ministerial levels of the two Governments. He said that there were six rounds of Peace talks at New Delhi which was remarkably one step forward for peace in the conflict but yet India has been denying genuine peace in Nagaland for more than six decades and that India has no right to occupy Nagaland.
He noted positively that India being a large democratic and civilized country there is no way that they could still ignore the national rights of the Nagas as Nagas have a right to be a nation and a people.
A short speech on the history of this day was also delivered by Vilhouthie Rhiepfu, President, Angami Region Council.A special number was presented by the Chedema peace Campers and scripture reading and prayer by Maj. Duopulie, Razou Peyu, AR, FGN. Rev Kari Longchari made offered a prayer for ‘Peace in Nagaland’. Today’s programme concluded with a mass prayer for the Naga people.
