A.S. Shimreingam
[dropcap]O[/dropcap]N this auspicious occasion of celebration of AHIMSA (Non-violence) by the United Nation as International Day of Non-violence, the Naga Solidarity Group bows its head and salutes the great leader and the pioneer of non-violence movement to fight against oppression and injustice. This day has a special significance for all of us because we are reminded once again of the ideal and principle of non-violence to build peaceful and just societies for ourselves and for our future generation. For the Nagas, it is also a day when we are reminded of the solemn commitment made by Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation to the delegation of Naga leaders on 19th July 1947 at Bhangi Colony, Delhi, where he said “Nagas have every right to be Independent. I believe in the brotherhood of man but I do not believe in forced unions. If you (Nagas) do not wish to join the Union of India, nobody will force you to do that. Sir, Akbar is wrong. He cannot do that. I will come to the Naga Hills; I will ask them to shoot me first before one Naga is shot”.Unfortunately Gandhiji was assassinated before fulfilling his solemn commitment made to the Nagas. It is strongly felt that there is a compelling need on the part of the Union of India to fulfill its commitment as the primary political step in order to usher in new hope, peace and new relation between India and the Nagas. The Naga Solidarity Group firmly believes that India shall deliver justice to the Nagas that has been denied and suppressed for more than 60 years.
The Naga Solidarity Group appreciates the Government of India for its realization and recognition of the unique history of the Nagas and for its commitment to solve the Indo-Naga political issue through the path of non-violence. Although, it is a big regret for all peace loving people that even after 16 years of discussions the Indo-Naga talk is still yet to come to a fruition. However, in the same spirit of non-violence espoused lifelong by Gandhiji, we appeal to both the Government of India and the Naga leadership to continue to practise and adhere to the policy of non-violence in upholding the democratic process of dialogue and also we urge the Government of India to show seriousness with sincerity and speed up bilateral dialogue to bring about a meaningful and honourable political solution based on the uniqueness of the Naga history.
Mahatma Gandhi, the pioneer of non-violence movement, understood the rights of the Nagas to be independent and hence, he did not believe in forced unions. Therefore, we call upon Indian civilians, Armed forces, Government of India to respect and honour the commitment made by Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. “Let the spirit of Gandhiji triumph. Let his soul rest in peace”.
On behalf of Naga Solidarity Group
