NSCN (IM) battalion observes I-Day at Tsiemekhuma

Our Correspondent
Kohima, August 14 (EMN): The Vp battalion of the NSCN (IM), located at Tsiemekhuma village, celebrated their 71st independence day at its headquarters today.
The day’s celebration was attended by the NSCN (IM) cadres and leaders of various public organisations and neighbouring village leaders from Angami and Rengma communities.
Addressing the gathering, commandant of the battalion Lt Col Akho Angami, MSM, while stating that the negotiating for the long pending Naga political issue is not far, he sought the cooperation of the public till the final goal is achieved.
Stating that the Naga political issue has extended for almost seven decades, he also paid his deepest respect to those who sacrificed their lives for the Naga national sovereignty ever since the inception of the national movement.
“We are really encouraged to see your presence today as we celebrate the 71st Nag Independence Day. We shall continue to look forward to your cooperation even in the future,” Col Nagi said.
Angami Youth Organisation (AYO) president Neinguvotuo Krose also spoke during the event.
“Though we may walk different path and have different responsibilities to shoulder, yet, we have a common goal and common destiny,” Krose said adding that both Naga underground and over-ground need the support and cooperation of each other if at all we have to walk further to achieve our dreams.
“As a Naga family, we should stand united. Be it public leaders or freedom fighters, none of us should compromise the rights and interests of the public,” the AYO president said adding “power doesn’t come with the barrel of the gun, but with the voice of the people.”
“We should respect our historical rights and live by example, with dignity, integrity and honour,” he stated.
The Angami Students’ Union’s Vice President Petekhrietuo Kiewhuo also urged all the Nagas, including the different factional groups, to work together for permanent settlement and to let peace prevail in our land.
“Let us be proud to proclaim the Naga identity and work together for a long lasting peace, so that we preserve the unity of the Naga nation,” Kiewhuo added.
Commandant of Zb Battalion, ‘Lt Col’ Vikato, MSM, in his address, stated that the Nagas will, step by step, move ahead towards a brighter future. A short speech was also delivered by the chairman of Tsiemekhuma Village Council.
The programme, commenced with invocation pronounced by pastor of Tsiemekhuma Baptist Church, followed by the flag hoisting and national salutation.