Phek District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, PTBA call a half-day shutdown on August 14 for remembrance, unity and reconciliation.
DIMAPUR — The Phek District Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PDCCI) and Pfutsero Town Business Association (PTBA) have called for a half-day shutdown of business establishments on August 14 until 12 noon as a mark of remembrance of the sacrifices of Naga forefathers and a call for unity, reconciliation and oneness among the Naga people.
In a press statement, PDCCI called upon all business establishments across Phek district to observe the shutdown, stating that the occasion was intended to honour those who contributed to the history and aspirations of the Naga people.
It stated that remembrance of the past should also provide an opportunity to reflect on present divisions and differences. PDCCI appealed to Naga political groups, national workers, civil society organisations, community leaders and the public to strengthen cooperation, build trust and place the larger welfare and future of the Naga people above individual differences and interests.
The chamber particularly urged the Naga political leadership to work towards greater unity and reconciliation, stating that differences should not become a permanent barrier to cooperation, peace and the collective aspirations of the people.
It said lasting peace, dignity, progress and prosperity could be achieved through collective responsibility, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the welfare of the people.
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PTBA, which will also observe the half-day shutdown until 12 noon, said the observance would be held on the theme "Our shared history, our common future: A call for Naga unity, reconciliation and oneness".
PTBA President Vekusu Chuzho said the closure was a mark of respect for the sacrifices of the forefathers and an acknowledgement of the cooperation extended by national workers towards the business community in Phek district. He also called for greater unity among Naga political groups towards a common political future.
Chuzho said the business community had consistently advocated the principle of "One government, one tax", citing the impact of multiple taxation and collections on businesses and the local economy.
PTBA also appealed to all Naga political groups, leaders and national workers to rise above their differences and work towards a common solution that could bring lasting peace, dignity, stability and development.
PTBA General Secretary Truvi Rhi said the significance of remembering the past should extend beyond remembrance and inspire the present generation to work towards a united and peaceful future.
Rhi also called for reflection on Christian values, stating that forgiveness, humility, reconciliation, love, justice and concern for one another should be reflected in conduct and actions.
PTBA Media Secretary Huveta Thuluo said August 14 should be observed in a spirit of respect, remembrance and reflection, irrespective of differences in opinion or present positions.