College students and other during the gathering at Rengma Baptist Church, Sovima on February 22.
.jpg)
NTCA & DNSU in support of all Nagas coming together
Morung Express News
Sovima | February 22
A reflective gathering at Rengma Baptist Church, Sovima, brought together college students in an event organised by the Nagaland Theological College Association (NTCA) and the Dimapur Naga Student's Union (DNSU). The event held this afternoon served as a call for unity, reconciliation and collective hope ‘in support of all Nagas coming together.’
Reflecting on the long-standing struggle of the Nagas, Rev Dr Ellen Konyak recounted on the formation of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) in 2008. She spoke about the arduous journey of peace building, marked by over 300 meetings with different factions, often undertaken voluntarily.
“Over the years, we have today 20+ factions operating in our land. As you can imagine, it is not easy, but we continue,” she said.
As a group, Dr Ellen held that the FNR were ‘mere facilitators,’ and often times are subject to negative comments, perceptions as well as a huge sense of responsibility for the people. Despite challenges, the FNR has persisted in its mission, with the latest agreement signed on February 18, 2025, marking another step towards reconciliation.
She highlighted key societal concerns: disconnect between leaders and the public, the need for young people to recognise their role in shaping history, and the importance of addressing intergenerational trauma. “If we do not transform our pain, we will always translate it,” she cautioned, urging the student community to engage with elders to understand the burdens carried across generations.
Encouraging the gathering to reflect on themselves, she asked, “Who are we now?”
“When I look at you, I see hope, I see a future, and that is what keeps the FNR going, despite our difficulties,” she affirmed, reminding all to reflect and transcend beyond challenges.
Sharing his thoughts, Rev Dr N Paphino spoke of Naga unity as an achievable goal, acknowledging that while colonial history divided the Nagas geographically, “our shared heritage, history, and faith remain indivisible.” He asserted that unity is not only possible but necessary. “Our history cannot be separated, our blood cannot be separated, and hence the Nagas can come together. It is possible because all things are possible with Christ.”
He acknowledged the scepticism surrounding unity, noting the excessive tribalism, political divisions, and the presence of numerous factions in the society. However, he countered this pessimism by imploring the Nagas to embrace a sense of oneness. “When we think about oneness, we, the Nagas, are one. When we believe in that, then we can,” declared.
Furthermore, Rev Paphino cited verses from the Bible to highlight that God has granted his people the ministry of reconciliation “through Jesus Christ, reinforcing the possibility of unity.”
While delivering the vote of thanks, Dr Alem Sangtam, President NTCA, expressed confidence that such gatherings serve as a reminder of the strength in solidarity, and the role of every Naga in the ongoing journey towards peace.
The event was marked by a time of prayer for the Naga nation. Dr Sashi Jamir, faculty of Oriental Theological Seminary chaired the programme.
