DIMAPUR — Global Naga Forum (GNF) commemorated the Matikhrü massacre (Pochury Black Day) on virtual mode via zoom on September 6.
Addressing the programme, president of Pochury Institute of Literature (PIL), Akho S Leyri, reflected on the horrors of the massacre. He stated that in order to achieve the NNC’s resolution of May, 1960 to flush out the Indian army, the Naga home guards attacked the 14th Assam Rifles posted at Thuda, Phor. However, the Naga armies were faced with heavy bombs and gun fires and had to withdraw their attack.
He stated that six village leaders from Phor village went to the Assam Rifles to restore peace but were tortured mercilessly and killed. He added that in retaliation, the 16th Punjab Regiment of Indian army surrounded the Matikhrü village on September 6, 1960, where they brutally tortured the men in front of their wives and children.
In the incident, nine village men were beheaded and their bodies were set ablaze and burnt beyond recognition.
Leyri, acknowledged the GNF for organising the event and called for unity among all the Nagas, emphasising the need for reconciliation and work together for the better future of the Nagas.
The president of the Pochury Students’ Union (PSU), Jeffrey Leyri, paid homage to the martyrs who made sacrifices for the Naga cause.
Rev. Zhihuotho Katiry, a survivor of the massacre, recounted the fateful day when he was just seven years old. He lost his father that day who succumbed to his injury.
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He stated that there are many families who underwent similar experience on that fatal September day.
Various organisations including the Naga Hoho, Naga Mother’s Association, Naga Students’ Federation and Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights have conveyed message of solidarity, stated an update from GNF.
Prof. Rosemary Dzuvichu, co-convenor of GNF and judge of essay competition, and Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, judge of poem recitation, announced the winners held on August 14 on the occasion of Naga Independence Day.