Speech of Z.Royim Yimchungrii, Acting President of Naga National Council

Dear Naga people,

This year on 14th August, 2017, thanks to God’s grace, we have the glorious opportunity to celebrate the 71st Naga Independence day. It is now 70 long years, nearly three quarters of a century, since our declaration of sovereignty was acknowledged by the United Nations.

So much has happened in the intervening years and so many lives have been lost in the fight for the Naga homeland. I salute all the National workers today but in particular the martyrs who willingly sacrificed their lives for the sacred cause of the Naga freedom.

Today, I am confident and happy to say that majority of the people who stood for Naga freedom are firmly united in pursuit of a political solution in the best interests of the Nagas. After forty long years of fragmentation, unity has become top priority in the homeland. Therefore this Naga National Strength should be welcomed by everyone, including supporters of the Nagas in other countries, who has called for Naga National Unity in order to resolve the pressing political issues. And we, the united Naga National Political Groups, thank our living God and also thank the people who worked so hard to achieve this united stand.

On 8th Aug.2017, in reaffirmation of unity, the six Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) signed a Deed of Commitment to safeguard the Nagas’ inalienable historical and political rights. They committed to further the purpose and vision for the Naga people under all circumstances,based on the Naga historical and political rights, through a common approach. Under this Deed, political orientations and ideologies will not be allowed to impede the yearning and desire to find a common ground through the Naga National Political Group (NNPGs) Working Committee.And in the event of aggression (internal or external) or use of force against an NNPG member, the NNPGs will collectively take appropriate measures. These are some of the firm stands that will be taken in the common interest for the better future of our Naga people. May God bless this united stand of ours for the salvation of our homeland.

The present political situation in the world is such that, at any moment, increased tensions between nuclear-powered nations could lead to outright war. Moreover, escalation of the stand-off between China and India could cause havoc in this part of the world but, if this happens, we pray that the good Lord will turn the situation to our favour. May His will be done.