Chizokho Vero
September 6
Kohima (MExN): Nagaland Peace Centre (NPC) today reaffirmed its commitment to strive for the cause of peace in Nagaland as it gave a clarion call to the people to inculcate a sense of unity.
Observing a Thanksgiving Service in commemoration of September 6, 1964 Peace Day at the Peace Centre Central office at D. Block, NPC chairman N. Theyo said “On this occasion, let us all reaffirm and commit ourselves to strive untiringly for the cause of peace in Nagaland.” He appealed to the Nagas to retrospect on the situation that prevailed in Nagaland prior to 6th September 1964.
“We recall how we were subjugated and oppressed by the military operations of the Indian Army.
There was bloodshed and people suffered untold hardship and misery. The need of the hour was peace, and Nagas cried out for the restoration of peace. A great hope emerged as God in his own wisdom and mercy made the Indian leaders come up with a political engagement through a peace talks,” Theyo said adding such grounds have resulted in the signing of the cease-fire on September 6, 1964 between the Federal Government of Nagaland and the Government of India.
“The much desired dream of the Nagas was realized and Nagas were delivered to this precious gift of peace and also the restoration of their physical, mental and emotional health” the leader said as he prayed that “God will continue to guide us to the right path to the peace” reminding that people were still waiting for the final solution. He also expressed hope that God would forgive the people and give them opportunity and blessing again.
Rev. Chen Rengma one of the speakers at the occasion in his speech also said that there were people all over the state expressing their desire to live in peace for the cause of which some even laid down their lives.
“In everyday area of our life there is the search for peace and its pursuits. It is a requirement which is the most demanding task of the people like you and me who have committed for the pursuits of peace to be prevailed among the community” he said while affirming that Nagaland is a Christian majority state in India but has witnessed relentless violence, bloodshed, corruption, mistrust, injustice and factionalism. ”Is there no answer to our situation? Is peace and reconciliation possible in the midst of such conflicting situation?” he questioned echoing the sentiments of the people ‘who keep asking why such a situation was taking place recklessly in a Christian state like Nagaland’.
Recalling the cease-fire agreement between the Government of India and the Naga national movement which was considered to be a period where there would be no more war he said, contrary to people’s expectation, there were several cases of killing, torturing and extortion which is not a genuine experience of peace for those who have lost their love ones and suffered.
“This is why it is said,’one person’s peace is another’s violence; justice for one person may entail violence against another,” Rev. Rengma added. He also called upon the people to carry the flag of peace and seek a purposeful life together in Christ. NPC member H. Hesso also spoke on the occasion. The NPC members also observed a 2 minute silence for all who died in the Indo-Naga conflict. Responsive readings were made led by Lhusi Haralu, Executive Director, Nagaland Peace Centre. Earlier, Rev. Dr. V.K. Nuh had said the invocation. Rev. Dr. Neiliezhu Usou said the benediction.
