Kohima, May 27 (MExN): The Naga National Council and the Federal Government of Nagaland (NNC/FGN) has reaffirmed and reasserted the “identity, rights, and aspirations of the Naga people for self-determination as expressed in the original Plebiscite held on May 16, 1951.”
To this end, it noted that it participated in the recent celebration of Naga Plebiscite Day in Kohima on May 16 to “accurately present the history of the Naga people and our collective struggle for sovereignty and independence, with the aim of uniting all Naga groups under this common truth.”
The celebration, organised by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and supported by various Naga Political Groups, apex civil society organisations, Tribal Hohos, and the Church at the NBCC Convention Centre, “unequivocally upholds the sacred sanctity of the Plebiscite itself,” it said.
Accordingly, it reiterated its commitment to not endorse any solutions that deviate from the truth, specifically “emphasising the pursuit of full sovereignty and independence as declared on the 14th of August 1947 and validated by the Naga voluntary plebiscite” held on May 16, 1951.
By participating in the celebration, the NNC/FGN further aligned itself with the “broader movement for Naga rights and sovereignty, while also contributing to the efforts aimed at reconciliation and unity among the Naga people,” stated a press release from Thepuswuyi S Keyho, President NNC. The participation also reflected its solidarity with the broader Naga community and support for collective efforts toward achieving common goals, it said.
Another objective, the NNC/FGN maintained, was to mobilise public support and raise awareness about the ongoing issues and aspirations of the Naga people among the wider community and the international audience. Further, the day commemorated a “significant historical event in Naga history, recognising the importance of the 1951 Plebiscite in the Naga struggle for sovereignty,” it added.
The NNC's presence also signaled a commitment to working together with other Naga organisations that recognise the Naga Voluntary Plebiscite of May 16, 1951, and promote unity and reconciliation among various Naga groups, the release added.
