NSF reminisces memories of yesteryear at 68

Our Correspondent KOHIMA, OCTOBER 29 The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) observed its 68th Foundation Day in its office premises in Kohima on Thursday. The programme was held in a solemn manner, remembering the sacrifices and contributions of the pioneers and former leaders of the organization. Former NSF president and editor Tir Yimyim, K Temjen Jamir, who was the guest speaker of the occasion, reminded the gathering of the role and the responsibility that the federation shoulders in the Naga society. He said the body was formed 68 years ago on two basic principles- to bring physically, emotionally, geographically all the Nagas together under one umbrella, and to uphold, protect the image of the Naga society as a nation and as a people. “This is a historic place where Naga issue, the political, social, economic and academic issues were discussed and decided,” he said. Although today, the former leaders may not be physically united under the umbrella of the organization, he stated the word ‘Naga’ unites them wherever they are. He recalled that during his time as a leader of the federation 20 years ago, the situation in Nagaland was very critical and was marked with strikes, bandh, road blockades and even “fast unto death” calls. “Those memories, the experiences made us what we are today, they have become a source of inspiration, strength and wisdom, telling us how to survive and to sacrifice for the society,” he stated, and expressed hope that with such understanding the present and future leaders of NSF would continue to lead the society. Jamir also underscored the need to discuss the present political situation since it affects every aspects of the Naga life. Pointing out that the Naga people in general are of the view that if situation is found to be acceptable and honourable then they will give their consent, he expressed his reservations on the notion, that there is a lack of wisdom here. “Instead of just saying ‘bring something which is acceptable and honourable’, why don’t we work together proactively towards achieving that which will be acceptable and honourable for all of us?” he challenged. He underscored that the people have to take the initiative, bring together all concerned to discuss and go beyond limitations to get involved whether they want to or not because it is a matter of shaping and building the future of the Nagas. “We must redefine and define what is acceptability, what is honourable for the Naga people. Is acceptable sovereignty? Is honourable geographic integration?” he questioned. “If we just keep our fingers crossed and keep waiting for someone to bring something acceptable, we are foolish people…. Those of us who are thinking so, are short of wisdom and bankrupt of ideas,” Jamir further stated. Towards this, the former student leader called upon the NSF to initiate discussions and bring ideals together so that the ‘acceptable and honourable’ solution is spelled out. He also remarked that some people are talking about shared sovereignty while others are talking about solution within the state and some about alternative arrangement. These are all possibilities, he said, but what is lacking is bold opinions and leadership. As far as the Naga political issue is concerned, he opined that the approach of the people have not been collective. He observed that there are so many peacemakers and solution seekers and whereas the goal was the same, there have not been a collective effort under one single umbrella. A common platform to address common difficulties is the need of the hour, he said. He hoped that the commemoration of the foundation of the NSF would be a new starting point to lay out a common platform for the people to overcome common difficulties. MLA Imkong L Imchen, who had served as general secretary of the NSF during the tenure 1983-85, also spoke on the occasion and shared his views and experiences and encouraged the members of the federation to execute their responsibilities with courage. Naga Hoho president, P Chuba Ozukum, who is also a former president of the federation, said the NSF has led the movement of the Naga people in the past and now the time has come for it to think what they really want for the younger generation. Since its inception, he said, the NSF has been “banging and knocking the doors of Indian authorities” asking for a solution, to bring into Naga political problem an amicable solution. Terming the recent “framework agreement” between the NSCN (IM) and the government of India as a foundation to the long running Naga peace process, he urged upon the NSF to also think seriously what it could contribute towards bringing a lasting solution to the Naga issue. Another former leader of the federation, parliamentary secretary Neiba Kronu also shared his concerns over some growing problems in the Naga society, such as the emergent disunity, issue of influx of unchecked illegal immigrants, NLTP Act, unemployment, the education sector, the huge spending into government set up (salaries), implications on development due to the land holding system of the state etc. Earlier, the presidential address was delivered by the incumbent NSF president Subenthung Kithan. The house also observed a minute of silence in memory of departed pioneers and leaders of the federation, prayed for the senior leaders who are still active as well as the present team. Former leaders who graced the programme included Aviu Nagi, Kopelo Krome, Toto Achumi, Moa Ozukum, Vipopal Kintso, Neizokhotuo Belho, Phushika Awomi, K Elu Ndang, O Wati Jamir, Kelhouneizo Yhome, Ejanthung Ngully, Tongpang Ozukum, Esther Rhakho, Joseph Nguorie and RS Jollyson among others. Executive members of the NSF federating units and subordinate bodies also attended the programme.