Our Correspondent
Chedema | August 14
The Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) today observed the 63rd Nagaland Independence Day here at the Chedema Peace Camp, Chedema Village. Addressing the nation after unfurling the National Flag, FGN Kedahge (president) Gen. (Retd) V Metha said, “As we celebrate our historic national day, we are also obliged to look back in remembering our past national leaders and heroes who brought about the Naga unity under one umbrella as a nation, defended and nurtured Nagaland, that Nagas are people among the peoples today.”
Acknowledging the rank and file of national workers in the Naga National Council (NNC), FGN and the Naga Army, Metha said it was only through their selfless commitment that our nation could build up this far with unfaltering loyalty. The journey of the Naga nation is filled with poignant memories of sufferings and sacrifices of martyrdom, he asserted, adding that young and old, both men and women, had faced the atrocities in the demonic hands of the Indian Armed Forces ever since 1954 till today.
Stressing on the present scenario, Metha said Nagas were confronted with harmful and destructive forces both externally and internally. He further urged upon the elite and rational Naga thinkers to come forward and reason together for the Naga common cause, rather than losing one’s own future credibility by remaining naïve. Expressing his happiness over the activities of the Naga national workers by gaining more awareness day by day in the international arena with the fast changing of world, Metha added that it was only because of the Naga mandate given to the NNC in the voluntary Plebiscite of May 16, 1951.
Stating that the Indian government has been dealing with the Indo-Naga issue with aggression, Metha opined, “India should realise from her misadventures during the past 60 years the futility of interfering in Naga internal affairs.” Stressing on the ceasefire issue, Metha said the FGN, having entered into Cease-Fire agreement with the GoI in 1964, has no intention to revive further violence in our land, yet India having unilaterally abrogated agreement in August 1972, is taking the advantage of our tolerance till date. Urging the people to turn back to God seeking His blessing through prayer in humility, he further challenged the national workers to confess their wrongdoings in the past before the Almighty.
Message from NNC President Adinno Phizo was read out by Lhouvitsu, Speaker Tatar Hoho. The celebration was also marked by presentation of awards, announcement of promotion to higher ranks, cultural dances and songs, display of kick boxing, etc. Earlier, V Phutoi Zhimomi, Sumi Midan Peyu-cum-Chaplee secretary, led the function while Col. Vephi Dozo, head chaplain, initiated the Bible-reading and prayer. The vote of thanks was proposed by Kilo Kilonser (Home Minister) Shevohu Keyho, while Razouvolie, pastor at CBC, pronounced the closing prayer.
