My dear colleagues in Naga national service, honorable clergymen, respected brothers and sisters from Jotsoma Village, ladies and gentlemen present; as we gathered here to mark the 58th Anniversary of the death of a Naga patriot. I take this opportunity to solicit each and every Naga to recall the first Naga leader Zasibito Nagi who had fallen martyr for Nagaland slain by Indian armed forces in the heart of Kohima on this day in the year 1952, because Zasibito Nagi stood by his people in defense of Naga rights.
Ever since its inception in 1956, the Federal Government of Nagaland marked this day the 18th October every year as the day of National mourning to pay our homage and respect to all those who laid down their lives defending our national rights. They were our heroes, and they will be remembered and honored all through in the annals of our National history.
The Naga history clearly indicates that our forefathers were never found short on their part for maintaining peace and harmony not only at home but also good relationship with our neighbors more so with India. Our leaders took much troubles and hardships to journey to India and talked with Mahatma Gandhi, C. Rajagopalachari, Gopinath Bordoloi, etc. establishing mutual understanding and respect between India and Nagaland. But it was demolished by the up-coming rulers of the newly independent India, after assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.
When various veiled threats failed, India blatantly provoked Naga people by manhandling Naga civilians and noble Zasibito Nagi had fallen the first victim to Indian arrogance. This was followed by the invasion of Nagaland in 1954 by the Indian Army. Thousands of our patriots and civilians perished in the ruthless hands of Indian armed forces.
Today is a day for our Heroes, to be remembered and honored. Their selfless sacrifices did enable us to stand as a distinct people and a nation today. Their sacrifice has indeed strengthened Naga Nation and Naga brotherhood. It will be the endeavor for every Naga to stand on their patriotic sacrifice and truthful purpose for the freedom of the Naga people.
Kuknalim
A tribute by the Kedahge, Gen. (Retd) Viyalie Metha, Federal Government of Nagaland On The Occasion Of The 59th Martyrs’ Day, 18th October, 2010 at Zasibito Memorial Park , Jotsoma Village.
