‘To build a nation, one must first comprehend the history behind it’
Thejavizo Venuh
A significant number of Naga youths were born after the echoes of insurgency had faded. Many did not witness the early years of armed struggle, yet have grown up hearing fragments of stories from elders and parents about the patriotic Nagas. Others, however, have grown up with little to no exposure to this history.
Today, much of what young people know about the Naga political issue comes from media coverage like HornbillTV, NLTV, et cetera, however, abductions, extortion, and proliferation of groups has overwhelmed the Naga political issue. This has created a gap in awareness and understanding about the Naga national movement, which further distanced today's youth from the movement.
The truth is the youth's interest in the Naga national movement has not waned, rather its true essence has never been conveyed to us. All we hear and witness are mostly negative headlines, not the history, sacrifices and way forward.
For too long, the Naga political issue remains unresolved however, this protracted impasse in no way invalidates the legitimacy of the 1951 plebiscite conducted by the NNC, wherein an overwhelming 99.9% of participants affirmed their support for Naga independence.
In 1947, when the NNC delegation, including AZ Phizo, presented themselves before Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the nation) in New Delhi to solicit his endorsement for Naga independence, Gandhi affirmed that the Nagas possessed an unequivocal right to self- determination. Yet upon apprising him of the menacing declaration by Hydari should the Nagas decline to accede to India. Gandhiji responded, “Sir Akbar Hydari is wrong, he cannot do it, I'll come to the Naga hills and I'll ask them to shoot me first before one Naga is shot.” This is a clear assurance of Naga independence to be given but unfortunately he was assassinated in January 1948. However, the purpose of the movement is not lost, it lives in the blood and sacrifices of our patriotic heroes.
The Naga political struggle has come at a high cost. Thousands of lives including leaders, civilians, and fighters have been lost over the decades of conflict. Beyond the loss of life, the social and psychological impact on generations cannot be ignored.
The youth hold the key to transform the Naga political issue into a story of reconciliation and solution as approximately 40% of Nagaland's population consists of youth and they are the future, their role is critical. It is therefore the responsibility of the leaders, civil society and institutions to provide knowledge of the Naga political issue to the youth - not to spur on rebellion against the government but to prevent misinformation and understand the issue from various perspectives. This will help them approach the issue with clarity, wisdom and deeper understanding.
The Naga society, though small, is deeply diverse, having around 30 factions, 17 recognised tribes and different ideologies/viewpoints. In such a context, unity must be prioritised over division. Rejecting violence, peace building should be at the centre of all efforts, ensuring past sacrifices will lead to meaningful solution rather than continued division.
If the youths are equipped with a deeper understanding of their history and complexity of the present, they will commit to unite and strive to pursue their aspirations through dialogue, wisdom and democratic means.
“An informed youth is not a force of division, but a bridge toward peace, unity, and a just future.”
