Our Correspondent
Mima | August 15
Reiterating that the Naga National Council (NNC) and the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) are the foundation of the Naga nation and the authority of the Naga people being represented wholly by the Nagas, the NNC/FGN today made an appeal to the Naga people to take part in building the nation in one’s own capacity.
Unfurling the Naga national flag at Mima ground on the occasion of the 64th Naga Independence Day on August 14, the Kedahge of the outfit, Gen (Retd.) Viyalie Metha, while recalling the history of the Naga struggle over the decades, dubbed as imposters all those “self-styled and self aggrandizing individuals and groups” which mushroomed recently proclaiming themselves as national workers. “They don’t represent their community, rather such persons are found to be either cast outs or self-exiled from their village community or society”, he said and urged, “Let no one any longer be confused but stride ahead for our national cause rather than meddling in petty personal conflicts”.
Asserting that the Naga nation constantly needs to be strengthened at all times in various areas of day-to-day activities, he said all are welcome to take part in building the nation in accordance with one’s own capacity “for which the doors are wide open”. Also, noting that today, we can be proud of our youth for being well-educated in various fields, the Kedahge said it is high time for our youth to take up their first responsibility in strengthening our social security and self-reliance in national life. On the occasion, the Kedahge also paid rich tributes to all patriots who sacrificed their lives for the Naga nation.
Earlier, NNC President Adinno Phizo’s Independence Day message was read out in which Adinno, while paying homage to the dedicated national workers and the Naga people for the indefatigable support of the NNC political vision and while also paying rich tributes to the Naga patriots and leaders who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of our people, vowed to continue to meet the national challenges ahead. To mark the Independence Day celebrations, gallantry medals were also presented to several national workers. The honours include Victory Cross, Hero’s Medal and Military Service Medal. Several serving Naga Army officers were also conferred promotion by the Chief of the Naga Army.
Meanwhile, the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) also celebrated Naga Independence Day at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama. In his message, NSF President, Mutsikhoyo Yhobu said the historic day will always continue to keep alive the uniqueness and history of the Nagas. He also said the “remarkable day” has also come as a time for Nagas to retrospect and introspect themselves.
