Er. Kropol Vitsu and others during Partition Horrors Remembrance Day in Kohima on August 14.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 14
Nagaland state unit of BJP today observed Partition Horrors Remembrance Day as part of “Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign at its head office, Kohima.
Speaking on the occasion, Nagaland’s Prisons, Printing & Stationery advisor Er. Kropol Vitsu joined the nation in paying tribute to the millions who endured unimaginable suffering during the Partition of 1947.
Instituted as a national observance on the visionary initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this day stands not only as a reminder of a painful past but also as a call to unity, peace, and human empowerment.
“Remembrance of Partition Horrors Day is a moment of reflection for every Indian-not to reopen wounds, but to recognize the strength and resilience of our people, and to ensure that the tragedy of the past paves the path toward peace and progress,” Er. Vitsu said.
The 1947 Partition, while driven by the momentum of political decision-making, was resisted strongly by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who stood firmly against the idea of division. Despite his efforts, the tide of events led to the separation of the subcontinent-and with it came one of the largest and most violent mass displacements in human history.
Displacement of millions of people across newly drawn borders which also led to the death of nearly a million innocent lives due to communal violence. Mass sufferings in refugee camps arose and basic human necessities became scarce. It also paved the way for deep socio-political and economic upheaval across both nations. Communal unrest among Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs, where families attempting to cross borders in both directions faced untold horrors. Women, in particular, faced the gravest atrocities, with many becoming victims of violence, abduction, and exploitation.
Er. Vitsu reflected on the tragedy, saying: “It was survival of the fittest in its cruelest form -where humanity suffered at the hands of division. Yet, from this immense suffering emerged courage, sacrifice, and the determination to rebuild a nation.”
The Advisor emphasized that the India we know today is a product of the relentless efforts of visionary leaders and citizens who worked together, despite the trauma, to stabilize and strengthen the country.
He also acknowledged that while peace largely prevails, occasional incidents, such as the one in Pahalgam, remind us of the continuing relevance of this remembrance i.e., Partition of 1947.
“Such incidents underscore the importance of learning from our past -that unity is our greatest strength, and communal harmony is non-negotiable,” he added.
As India continues to move forward, Er. Vitsu reiterated his commitment to uphold the values of peace, tolerance, and national integrity, and urged every citizen-especially the youth to remain vigilant against the forces of division.
“Let us not allow the pain of the past to go in vain. Let us use it to build bridges of understanding, respect, and hope,” he concluded.
The programme was chaired by Vekho Nakhro, general secretary State ST Morcha while welcome address was delivered by Khrielie Usou, president BJP Kohima District.
Vote of thanks was proposed by Thomas Magh, Co-convenor, Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, Nagaland.
