Naga Students’ Union, Delhi commemorated the 74th anniversary of Naga Plebiscite at Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi on May 16.
Dimapur, May 17 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Union, Delhi (NSUD) commemorated the 74th anniversary of Naga Plebiscite at Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi on May 16. The commemoration programme was attended by Naga Scholars Association and Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights, among other members of the Naga community in Delhi-NCR, stated a press release received here.
Shelmi Sankhil, one of the speakers, gave a thought-provoking presentation, reflecting on the Plebiscite legacy and its continued impact on the Naga community. The presentation directed focus on how tribal identities, and ultimately the Naga identity came to be formed as a result of certain influences during the time of British occupation. Highlighting the varying narrative surrounding Naga history, he stressed on the need to critically view historical narrations.
Delivering her presentation, Ningreichon Tungshang stressed “on the importance of having a clear vision to guide us in our pursuit of our common objectives as Nagas.” She narrated that despite being relatively less educated, “our ancestors possessed clear vision of what Nagas desired, which was clearly expressed in the form of the Naga Plebiscite.”
She also lamented at the various issues such as addiction and impiety afflicting the Naga society and emphasised on the need for all Naga individuals to turn towards Christ.
Phungkhok SA Joint Secretary, Tangkhul SUD, presented a comprehensive historical overview of the Naga Plebiscite, including a detailed account of the historical context, key events, and the lasting impact of the plebiscite on the Naga community.
Earlier, Jepi Y Chisho, President, NSUD, lamented that there is a growing disconnect between the younger generation of Nagas and the Naga political movement and insisted “the youth must be aware of Naga political history to be able to carry forward the movement.”
He impressed upon the audience that the commemoration programme is not merely a symbolic gesture but a meaningful and well-thought initiative meant to draw Nagas, especially youths, closer to the Naga political movement.
Awarthanga Chiru, a music composer and singer, presented a song inspired by the Naga struggle for independence. The programme began with opening prayer by Albert N Hau, Associate Pastor of Zeme Church Delhi and ended with a prayer by Inoka Muru, Evangelist, Capital Christian Centre Delhi.
