A Staff Reporter
Dimapur, November 3
On the special occasion, Gadkari said making Nagaland of Rani’s dream is not impossible saying it is the duty of the people to honour the fighters of “our freedom” struggle who would continue to inspire and motivate younger generation.
Gadkari said “our history of independence” and culture is an inspiration and motivation for new generation. He said many leaders had fought gallantly for the independence of our nation of which ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu was one amongst them. He said it was because of their sacrifices, devotion, strong conviction, nationality and pride for the country that we are an independent nation.
Also stating that unity in diversity was one peculiar characteristic which bound together and strengthen the country, he said those past leaders fought with vision for the well being of the future generation.
Stating that late ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu too had fought with vision and to liberate her people from foreign yoke, Gadkari said the greatest challenge befalling upon the present generation is to fulfill her aspiration. ‘Can’t Nagaland, NE region and the nation stand for the cause for which she fought relentlessly during her lifetime?’ he asked.
Gadkari said lack of love for region, poverty, lack of vision for creating more avenues for employment and giving life to the poor people are the biggest challenges today. To overcome those challenges, Gadkari said political will is utmost which require some initiatives from the people. He said social-economic reform should be focused on eradicating poverty, provide good roads, hospitals and schools.
On the occasion, he urged upon the public to commit themselves and transform the state into one of the most progressive and developed state in the country. He courage that people are capable of doing it adding only strongly political will is required.
State Governor, PB Acharya, said we should be proud without hesitation of Naga lady who fought the British Raj and refused to be slave under their rule. Stating that every village has hero/ heroine who fought for freedom, the Governor said ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu was one among those heros and heroines. He also informed that the nation will be observing a year-long programme to commemorate her centenary birth anniversary. Stating that though ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu was born of Zeliangrong mother, the Governor said she had fought and worked for the greater cause of the Nagas and India. He further appealed the gathering to let the good sense prevail among the Naga brothers with the spirit of forgive and forget on the episodes of past 50 years. He also made a fervent appeal to respect each other religion and be a good follower of one’s own faith, because India is a secular state.
Resolve differences on Gaidinliu through dialogue, reconciliation: CM
Amidst difference of opinions surrounding ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu and her movement, chief minister, TR Zeliang today suggested the Zeliangrong Baudi to resolve such differences among the community through dialogue and reconciliation. He was of the opinion that once the issue is resolved within the Zeliangrong community, there would less differences on the issue among the other Naga tribes.
Addressing the 100 birth anniversary celebration of ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu at New Peren DC complex this afternoon, Zeliang said ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu’s life was tumultuous with the freedom struggle for her people, long years of imprisonment, solitary confinement and finally freedom after independence.
Stating that her contribution has brought deeper understanding of the principles of nationalism, freedom and sacrifice for the people, he however said there have been divided opinions on her recognition. He was saddened by talks of some people who feigned ignorance about the respect ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu was given by the State of Nagaland during her lifetime.
Referring to some people’s reaction towards the centennial function, Zeliang has termed its ‘unfortunate’ and reminded that many from Heraka community have become Christians and celebrated various jubilees with prayers to forgive and forget the past bitterness. He said Zeliangrong history is replete with the sacrifices made by the Zeliangrong People’s Convention (ZPC) led by Rani Gaidinliu who met several central government leaders for a separate homeland. But later on at the request of Naga political group, decided to join the mainstream demand for Naga integration.
Stating that many ZPC leaders are still alive, he expected them to stand by the historical truth and not remain silent in the midst of controversy that surrounds ‘Rani’ Gaidinliu. He lamented that the recognition of this freedom fighter is delayed within our own society and by our own people, while elsewhere in a far away Andaman and Nicobar Islands Musuem, the picture of Rani Gaidinliu is placed along with her artefacts, so also in the London archives and museum but not in Nagaland museum where she lived for the better part of her life.
As the people celebrate 100 years birth anniversary, he wished that peace and better understanding, tolerance, reconciliation, respect and gender sensitivity prevail among the Nagas and for the sake of the future generation.
Host of dignitaries including Home Minister, Y Patton and other cabinet minister and parliamentary secretaries attended the celebration.
