ENSUD and ENPUD celebrate coming together in Dimapur

DIMAPUR — A significant event unfolded on Thursday as the Eastern Nagaland Sumi Union Dimapur (ENSUD), affiliated itself with the Eastern Nagaland People’s Union Dimapur (ENPUD), celebrated with a function at Konyak Paan, Purana Bazaar, Dimapur.

President of ENPUD president NT Thamlong Phom termed the event a "historic moment for ENPUD," stating that the day's significance would depend on how each individual approached the future.

As Phom emphasised that unity is key, he said going ahead together will set a great example for others.

“We've got a lot to accomplish together, and it'll take sacrifice. If we prioritise our individual rights over unity, we'll miss out on progress. Sometimes, giving up our own rights is necessary for the greater good. Without unity, we'll be weakened and lose credibility,” he said.

Minister CL John highlighted the long-standing relations between Sumi and Eastern Naga, calling the event a homecoming of the eastern Sumi. He expressed hope that one day, Nagas from Myanmar, Assam, Nagaland, and Arunachal will celebrate a similar homecoming.

The minister said that the ENPO and Sumi Hoho should take the lead in achieving Naga unity. “Our objective should be to bring the various Naga political groups as one entity,” he advocated.

“The Sumi-ENPO bond is a fraternal tie, not a challenge or threat to others, and isn't about forming a power bloc. We will not go for tribalism.  Our unity is not for tribalism but to advocate for unity, John added.

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Sumi Hoho president Dr. Vihuto Assumi called the day historic for eastern Sumis, saying, "When our eastern Nagaland brothers accept our eastern Nagaland Sumi brothers as their own, the whole Sumi heart swells with joy.”

The Sumi Hoho president termed ENSUD's affiliation with ENPUD as an act of family, opening doors for Eastern Sumis to connect with ENPUD in Dimapur.

Assumi emphasised that unity doesn't mean uniformity, saying "our diversity is our wealth." He praised ENPO tribes' unity, urging others to emulate their ability to set aside differences for a common cause, and appreciate their example.

Assumi stressed that past hostilities between tribes should stay in the past, as he said that Sumi’s are working to build closer relationships with all tribes.

While acknowledging that the demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) has been moving forward and that the demand was approaching reality, he conveyed Sumi Hoho's solidarity with the demand for FNT, and said, "Your progress is our progress.”

He understood ENPO's focus but emphasised that their voices are vital in the broader Naga political journey, urging collective effort for an early, inclusive, and honourable settlement to the Naga issue.

ENSUD president Atoka Chopy termed the day as “a red letter day,” a long cherished desire to be home with the brothers and sisters of eastern Nagaland.

“We have been longing for this day and finally this comes true,” he said while expressing that the affiliation is a restoration and recognition of the Eastern Sumi as an integral and inseparable part of the larger eastern Naga family.