PHEK, AUGUST 12 (MExN): The Phek District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PDCCI) and the Pfutsero Town Business Association (PTBA) have jointly called for unity among Naga political groups and announced a half-day shutdown of business establishments across Phek district on August 14 to mark Naga Independence Day.
The two organisations said the closure, which will be observed till 12 noon, is a symbolic act of respect and solidarity with the freedom fighters “who gave their sweat, tears, and lives for the dream of a free Nagaland.”
In separate but coordinated statements, the PTBA and PDCCI expressed concern over the continued fragmentation of the Naga political movement, which they said has splintered into nearly 30 factions. This disunity, they said, has weakened the collective voice of the Naga people, delayed meaningful political resolution, and created economic strain through overlapping taxation, price hikes, and a climate of uncertainty.
“The original spirit of the Naga struggle was built on unity, shared sacrifice, and a common purpose. That spirit has been eroded by mistrust and competing interests,” the PTBA said, adding that prolonged division “widens the gap between leaders and the people they claim to represent.”
PDCCI, in its statement, appealed to all Naga political groups to unite as one body to represent the Naga people with a single, strong, and transparent voice. It urged them to work towards a reliable and practical political solution acceptable to all Nagas, end multiple and overlapping taxation that harms both traders and consumers and place peace, unity, and economic stability above factional or organisational gains.
PTBA president and PDCCI vice-president Vekusu Chuzho said, “Unity was the foundation of the Naga struggle, and unity remains the only path to a meaningful solution. The divisions we see today are costing the Naga people politically, socially, and economically. We urge every leader and every group to put aside their differences and work together for One Voice, One Solution, One Future.”
PDCCI said Naga Independence Day should be a time not only to honour the past but to “reflect on the present and the future we are building.” It urged every citizen, tribal body, church, and civil society organisation to join in the call for unity and reconciliation.
“This August 14 should be more than a date on the calendar – it must be a call to conscience and a reminder that our true strength lies in standing together as one people,” the PDCCI added.
