NSF reaffirms right to self-determination on Pochury Black Day

DIMAPUR — The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has reaffirmed the ‘right to self-determination,’ saying that it is justified by the Nagas’ unique history, culture, and political goals as declared to the world on August 14, 1947.

In a press note issued on the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of Pochury Black Day, the NSF said that Nagas declared themselves free from any imperialistic forces on that day, and on May 16, 1951, through the Naga national plebiscite, 99.9% of the Nagas reiterated their right to a sovereign, independent nation under the leadership of Lt. A Z Phizo.

The federation urged the government of India to keep its word as declared to the world during the Prime Minister of India’s two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2015 and restore the historical and political rights of the Naga people without further ado.

Commenting on Pochury Black Day, the NSF said that it stands in solemn remembrance of all the costly sacrifices made in the odyssey of the Naga struggle for self-determination.

It detailed that in 1960, the Naga Army shot down an Indian Air Force plane, and four of the aircraft’s pilots and five crew members were captured. However, none of them were tortured, and they were all released through the Indian Red Cross Society.

“Nevertheless, in the process of the Indian Army’s operations to rescue the airmen, many villages were burned down, and untold atrocities and torture were inflicted upon the innocent villagers in the Pochury region,” the statement read, adding that in remembering September 6, 1960, it is filled with deep reverence and offered homage to the visionary leaders and the heroes of the past, who suffered and laid down their lives at the hands of the Indian armed forces.

The federation offered its gratitude and extended solidarity to the nationalists who have dedicated their lives to pursuing the aspirations of the Naga people. It stated that the sovereignty and integration of the Nagas are visions that have been bestowed by the Almighty God.

“Today, we join with the rest of the Naga people to celebrate yet another year of the younger Naga generation and our aspiration for peace. We celebrate the memories of our dear comrades who have sacrificed their lives protecting the interests of the younger Naga generation,” the statement further said, adding that their legacy, their lives, and their memories will continue to be celebrated through the pages of history, in everyday lives, and on occasions such as this.

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