Here is speech by Lieut. Gen. (Retd.) Khango Konyak, President of NSCN/GPRN-K (Khango-Hokato Vusshe), on the occasion of Naga Independence Day.
Beloved Countrymen and women,
Respected elders, leaders of civil society organisations, and fellow patriots. Seventy nine years ago, our forefathers declared before God and men to live as a free nation. Today, as we gather together beneath the banner of our nation with hearts filled with gratitude, pride and hope, let us remember that, it is not merely a commemoration of a historic proclamation but a solemn covenant between the sacrifices of yesterday, the responsibilities of today, and the aspirations of tomorrow.
Today, with profound reverence, we honour our martyrs - the brave sons and daughters who chose sacrifice over surrender, conviction over comfort and the welfare of the nation above their own lives, their sacrifices is the foundation upon which we stand today. We owe them not only our remembrance but our commitment to uphold the values for which they gave their yesterday.
On this sacred occasion, I also pay tribute to every citizen who continues to serve our nation with dedication and integrity, to all my fellow comrades I salute you for your service to the nation as it is the living continuation of our struggle for self determination.
My beloved Nagas, the peace we enjoy today is neither accidental nor permanent. It is the fruit of immense sacrifice, bitter experiences, restraint, dialogue and the collective wisdom of our people. Peace is the shield that protects our future. It is therefore our solemn responsibility to preserve and strengthen this hard earned peace.
We must, therefore, remain vigilant against anti-social elements and those who seek to divide us through hatred, misinformation, fear and violence. Let us reject every attempt to provoke division, violence or communal distrust.
Today, I call upon the state government to rise above political expediency and demonstrate genuine sincerity, courage, and statesmanship in addressing the aspirations of our people for an early and honorable solution.
The Government of India must prioritise the ongoing Naga political issue with utmost integrity and commitment. Ceasefire is not an end in itself and it must not become a mechanism for indefinitely. Prolonging the unresolved Naga issue has imposed significant social, economic and psychological burdens upon our people. It is therefore imperative that the Government of India (GOI) approach it with renewed urgency, genuine political will, and constructive engagement to bring the present peace process to its logical end.
My dear Countrymen,
The NSCN is guided by the ideals of freedom, justice, dignity, equality, self-determination and the welfare of our people. The path before us will be difficult, and the journey may be long. There will be moments of uncertainty, pressure and hardship. But our principles shall never be compromised, and our resolve shall never be broken. We shall remain steadfast because our cause is greater than any individual. Our struggle is not merely for the present; it is for the generations yet to come. We seek to build a future where our people can live with freedom, peace, dignity and justice.
We shall continue to pursue our objectives with courage, wisdom and determination. We shall remain committed to a just and peaceful resolution, but we shall never abandon the fundamental principles upon which our cause stands.
Let history record that when our people faced adversity, we stood together; when the road was difficult, we persevered; and when our resolve was tested, we remained faithful to our cause and to our people.
Let us never allow personal interests, tribal divisions, suspicion, or selfish ambition to rise above our national interest. Let us stand together—as one people, united in purpose, guided by mutual respect, and committed to the greater good.
Our martyrs entrusted us with a dream. Let us honour that sacrifice through wisdom, unity and perseverance. Let us renew our pledge before Almighty God: to remain faithful to our national ideals, strengthen our unity, and work tirelessly for a future founded on justice, dignity, reconciliation, and lasting peace.
God Bless Nagaland! Kuknalim
Lieut. Gen. (Retd.) Khango Konyak
President of NSCN/GPRN-K (Khango-Hokato Vusshe)