Michael Yeptho
General Secretary/Ato Kilonser
NSCN/GPRN 'through MIP'
On this day, the 14th of August 2022, I give my unconditional glory to our God, for providing us strength, vigour and courage at all times which enabled us to come thus far in our 'Common Naga Political Journey'
As we extend our gratitude and accolades let us also remember our brave pioneers and our fearless founding fathers who despite all hardships, envisaged that, "there will be sunshine after rain..., and there will be laughter after pain" and hence with such vision and hope, built this platform with so much pain, trials and tribulations on where we stand today enabling us to carry on their legacy.
On this day, our ancestors and our fallen heroes are cheering on from far beyond their graves, so let us once again rejuvenate ourselves and trumpet the clarion call and exclaim to the World that Nagas are not Lost People.
Indo-Naga issue is one of the longest conflict in South East Asia written in blood, tears and sweat of thousands of martyrs comprising of both freedom fighters and civilians alike.
However, years of endless conflict could not produce any solution which made leaders on the Indian side, including political leaders and even top Indian Army officials to realise the futility of military exercise, and hence declared that, "Indo-Naga conflict can never be solved militarily, but needs a political approach"
Notwithstanding, everyone (including the Indian side) and most importantly, the young generation must understand that the "Naga Cause" was never a secessionist agenda, for the simple fact that, since time immemorial, Nagas were never a part of Indian Union, either by conquest or consent.
It is also neither a demand for a better political status, but is simply a case of yearning to take back what was rightfully ours.
Nevertheless, having said all and considering that we are a fortunate generation living life in a fast lane and advanced age of technologies, wisdom and intelligence, let us focus on the practical and pragmatic approach at present by reflecting on these contemporary times of prospects and possibilities.
No conflict in the world is beyond redemption if two conflicting sides can concur and agrees to sit across the table so as to deliberate, to respect and be respected on each other’s views.
Therefore, today as we stand before the potential future prospects to a promise of peace overtures and tranquil calm, let us pray and wait upon the Lord to behold and decide our future posterity, that is built upon trust, respect and honour between two entities, and to do away with all sorts of prejudices, bigotries, animosities, apprehensions and distrusts as were in the days of yore.
Every Nagas should stand proud and remain grateful to our predecessors, on whose pain and ordeals including uncountable lives which were sacrificed and compromised so that their future progeny could live honourable lives, free from all kinds of subjugations, bondages, oppressions and confinements.
Lastly, let us also be proud that till this day, we made our stands and never yielded to threats, intimidation and coercion but in order to respect the wishes of the people for peace and serene calm, we are prepared to stick and adhere to the contemporary prospects of possibilities.
GOD BLESS NAGALAND
KUKNALIM.
