Nagaland Science & Technology Advisor Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu addresses the 12th edition of the Pochury Black Day Memorial Cup 2026 at Meluri on September 15. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Meluri | September 15
Nagaland Science & Technology Advisor Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu today stressed the need to fight for Naga sovereignty through a policy of non-violence.
“We should talk to our adversaries diplomatically,” he said while gracing the 12th edition of the Pochury Black Day Memorial Cup 2026 on September 15 at Meluri Local Ground.
“Nagas must fight our battle through a non-violent policy. We must approach our aspirations for sovereignty in a more diplomatic manner and reason with mighty India and not take up arms in our struggle for sovereignty,” Azo said.
He recalled that the observance of Pochury Black Day carries the painful memory of atrocities committed across Pochury areas, including Phor, Yisi, Matikhrü and other villages, where village leaders and innocent villagers made immense sacrifices during the Naga freedom struggle.
He spoke of the brutal atrocities inflicted upon the people, including ‘beheadings, torture and sexual violence’ allegedly by the 16th Punjab Regiment, describing such acts as deeply “unacceptable and unforgivable.”
“However, as Christians, we must forgive and forget the past and leave judgement to God Almighty. We must let bygones be bygones and not allow the bitter past to destroy the perfect future ahead of us,” Azo said, urging Nagas to put God Almighty first to overcome the hurdles ahead.
He also appealed to the Pochury community to forgive those who had wronged them, citing Romans 12:19, which calls on believers not to seek revenge but to leave vengeance to God.
NSF, SKK, PSU call for Naga unity
Meanwhile, sharing a solidarity message, Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) Vice President Vimeyiekho Vitso cited the resolute words of late Matikhrü Village Chief Thah: “It’s a man’s pride—no surrender, no compromise for our birthright. This sacrifice is to protect our freedom; I shall gladly lay down my life for the future Naga generation.”
He reaffirmed the NSF’s solidarity with the Pochury people and honoured their sacrifices for Naga political movement, adding,“May we live each day for a unified lim and glory of the Nagas.”
“Through this tournament, let us not only score goals for history, but let us continue to live for history,” he said, adding, “Through this event, let the flag of the Naga people, the aspiration of the Naga people, and the unity of the Naga people be held high.”
Sümi Kiphimi Küqhakulu (SKK) President Hipito Achumi emphasised that the tournament transcends the boundaries of sport, serving as a platform to strengthen the bond between the Sümi and Pochury communities and foster greater unity among the Nagas.
He affirmed the continued solidarity of Sümi students with the people of Pochury.
“Let us continue to usher peace and unity across Naga homeland,” he said, urging the gathering to continue to love one another as brothers and sisters, correct one another and not harbour hatred.
Pochury Students' Union (PSU) President Rongley Leyri said that the Pochury Black Day Memorial Cup is not just a competition. “It is a reminder of our shared history, the sacrifices of our ancestors, and the resilience of our people. It serves as a call to unite as a community, cherish our identity, and continue to uphold the values that define us.”
“Let us carry forward the spirit of unity, courage, and hope that this event symbolises. Together, through sports and community, we continue to honour the sacrifices of the past and build a stronger future for all,” he added.
