Attending Plebiscite Day to accurately present history, says NNC/FGN

DIMAPUR — The Naga National Council (NNC) has stated that the purpose of the NNC and the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) attending the Naga Plebiscite Day was to accurately present the history of the Naga people.

It further wanted to present the collective struggle for sovereignty and independence, aiming to unite all Naga groups under the common truth, according to a press release issued by its president, Thepuswuyi S Keyho.

The Naga Plebiscite Day was observed on May 16 at the NBCC Convention Centre in Kohima. It was organised by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and supported by various Naga political groups, Apex Civil Society Organisations, tribal hohos and the Church.

It said in the statement that the NNC at the programme 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 August 14, 1947, and validated by the voluntary plebiscite held on May 16, 1951.

“By participating in the Plebiscite Day celebration, the NNC/FGN aligns 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,” it read.

Further, it described its participation as a show of solidarity with the broader Naga community and support for collective efforts towards achieving common goals; 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; and to commemorate a significant historical event in Naga history.

It was also noted that the participation was to promote unity and reconciliation among various Naga factions and groups and to reaffirm and assert the identity, rights, and aspirations of the Naga people for self-determination.