GNF all set for ‘Naga Solidarity Walk’ starting on July 28

Our Correspondent
Kohima, July 27 (EMN): A two-day ‘Naga Solidarity Walk,’ organised by the Global Naga Forum (GNF), is all set to kick-off from Lerie Junction in Kohima at 6 am on July 28 and culminate the following day in Senapati town, Manipur, on the theme “One people, one destiny.”

A GNF member on Wednesday informed that participants from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Myanmar have confirmed their participation in the two-day rally. However, the organisers have not disclosed the number of participants citing ‘security reasons.’

The members stated they are expecting a ‘huge numbers’ for the rally. It was informed that a minimum of 500 participants would begin the walk from Kohima to be joined by more people from Mao gate. The number of participants was expected to go up to 1500 on reaching Maram and cross 3000 after reaching Karong, the member informed.

“This is the start of the 21st century Naga Solidarity Walk, the first leg of a people’s relay for unity and peace in the Naga homeland. This is not an anti-India project; this is a pro-Naga movement and a non-violent one,” GNF had stated earlier.

“The Solidarity Walk will celebrate our being Nagas together. It will be inclusive, non-partisan, and peaceful. The walk will bridge the divisions and boundaries – physical and regional, ideological and political, tribal and gender. It will be a joyous cultural enactment of Naga sisterhood and brotherhood, reinforcing our community bonds as a people across the states in India and Northwest Myanmar, as well as Nagas around the world,” it added.

Stating that it would be peaceful walk, the organisers have requested the participants not to indulge in any form of violence. It urged the participants to refrain from any violent activities.

The organisers also informed participants to carry their own sleeping bags and toiletries. It further informed that mini-trucks to carry sleeping bags, rucksacks, etc would be provided. It stated that food, refreshments and lodging have been arranged; while a medical team has been arranged adding that buses for the return journey back to Kohima has been arranged.

The travel itinerary included a flag-off at Lerie Junction, breakfast at Phesama, lunch at Viswema and a night halt at Maram on July 28. On the following day, breakfast and push-off from Maram and lunch at Karong and a culmination at Senapati at 12: 30 pm.