First death anniversary of Khriesavizo and Bendangnungsang
Kohima Bureau
Kohima, Jan. 31 (EMN): The first death anniversary of Khriesavizo Metha and Bendangnungsang Longkumer, the two youths who were killed during the Urban Local Body (ULB) election imbroglio last year, was observed on January 31 at the martyrs ‘memorial park, Old Secretariat Complex, Kohima.
The observation of the death anniversary also coincided with the dedication programme of the memorial monument which has been erected in their memory.
It was on this day a year back that the two youths succumbed to bullet injuries fired by police personnel while on the call of duty of the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) at Dimapur.
Khriesavizo Metha, son of Neimhalie Metha, hailed from Chiechama village under Kohima district, while Bendangnungsang Longkumer, son of Longeryongdeng, was from Aonokpu village under Mokokchung district.
Speaking on the day, Nagaland Tribes Action Committee (NTAC) convenor, KT Vilie paid rich tribute to the two martyrs for sacrificing their precious lives for the Naga cause.
“Their sacrifice will not go in vain and they will be remembered throughout the years to come,” the NTAC convenor said adding that through their sacrifices the Nagas could achieve what they fought for against the decision of the State government.
“This monument is the property of all Naga tribes. We will continue to remember their sacrifices even in teh coming years by observing their death anniversary,” the NTAC convenor stated.
JCC co-convenor, Luola-o Üsou, recalled that the two martyrs had given their lives for the rights of the Nagas with no fault committed by them. He expressed his desire that the two martyrs should be given equal respect with those martyrs who have gone before them including the Kargil heroes and NSF martyrs.
On behalf of the JCC, Üsou thanked the NTAC for their tireless efforts throughout the construction of thsi memorial monument.
Advisor to Angami Public Organisation (APO), Dr. Vilhusa Seleyi asserted that the death of the two martyrs have brought the Naga people closer and created a sense of oneness among the Naga community by establishing friendship amongst our fellow brothers and sisters.
“While we remember their sacrifices, yet I believe, this will lead us to a better day and a better world. Let us never forget that they died while defending and protecting the birth right of the Nagas. They deserve our respect,” Dr. Seleyi stated.
Speaking on behalf of Bendangnungsang’s family, Merenchiba Longkumer said that their sacrifices and deeds will be forever remembered and etched in our memories as martyrdom in the annals of Naga history.
“Today is a sad day for all of us and I would like to remind everyone not to forget why these two promising young men gave up their lives for,” he said adding that their sacrifices should not go in vain. He also thanked the NTAC, JCC, APO and all well wishers for coming up with a monument in their memory.
Late Khriesavizo’s sister, Ruopfükhrienuo Metha stated that the two martyrs died for a good cause while defending the rights of the Nagas. She expressed hope that truth and justice will prevail and that peace and unity be amongst the Nagas as we strive to build a better society.
Khriesavizo’s maternal uncle, Thajao Vihienuo, in his address, stated that the two martyrs have died in pursuit of a cause and desire of the Naga people.
“It is not by accident that their mortals remains are laid to rest here. The movement does not end with their deaths. Indeed, this sacrifice is only the beginning of a movement. A movement against deceit and betrayal,” Vihienuo said.
“Next time, when we come together to remember their sacrifices, let us talk of our joy and achievements and also speak of the victory of our youth and not their dead,” he added.
A representative of Diphupar Naga Youth Organisation (DNYO) also spoke on the day, while DNYO also sang a tribute song in memory.
