NNC observes 74th anniversary in Chedema

NNC President Adinno Phizo addressing the 74th anniversary of NNC in Chedema on February 2.

Our Correspondent
Kohima | February 2

The 74th anniversary of Naga National Council (NNC) formation was observed at Peace Hall, Chedema under Kohima district on February 2.

Addressing the gathering, NNC President Adinno Phizo said, “Today is Naga National Council Formation Day, which was launched on February 2, 1946, that was seventy four years ago.”

At that time, she said the Naga people needed to have a name to represent them and that is how the name Naga National Council came about.

“At that time we have a country of many regions (tribes) but each have different system and culture as it is today. But there is no issue of ‘tribalism’ among the people; this concept of tribalism came about only after some job seekers among educated people arise,” she said.

Phizo said that NNC is not a political party or a government, but the people are NNC members. The present struggle has been going on for seventy three years, she said.

“In 1947, when the Great Britain relinquished her power in our region, India immediately forgot her past and went on to take over the small country Nagaland. They brought in wars but the Nagas defended their country. Consequently India signed ceasefire Agreement with the Federal Government of Nagaland in 1964 but later abrogated the ceasefire in 1972. They also tried to drive out the people and burnt down their villages, but the Nagas came back and built their villages, helping one another in community spirit.”

During those periods, Phizo said that Nagas suffered immensely and died in the hands of Indian armed forces who tried to crush the Nagas.

“Even today the Indian government has been extending the Armed Forces Special Powers Act every six months since its promulgation in 1958 and order her Armed Forces to occupy Nagaland till today,” she said.

The history of Nagaland is clear that Nagas are not demanding anything from India, said Phizo, while asserting, “It is not a political problem. Nagas love their country and they want peace. Reason must prevail.”

Stating that “our forefathers and the past generation have handed down this beautiful land to the present generation, Phizo urged that “we should not fail them, being mindful of that love for Nagaland and the people.”

Earlier, Alhouü Dzüvichü also exhorted the gathering. The programme was led by NNC vice president B Pashen while dedicatory prayer for NNC platinum jubilee was pronounced by Rev Savito Nagi.