During the past week much accolades have been heaped as also condolences not only by leaders across the political spectrum despite differing ideologies but also by leaders from around the world and various citizens, on the passing away of former Prime Minister Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Nagas were also not behind in conveying their share of tribute to the late icon of Indian Politics and who had also been a freedom fighter for Independent India in his younger days.
He became Prime Minister for the third time which tenure made him the only non-congress leader to complete his full term. He made a programme to visit Nagaland in spite of his otherwise heavy schedule. The visit in 2003 was not merely political because we knew he had real concern for the Naga people.
Due to inclement weather he chose to travel to Kohima from Dimapur by road and was appalled by the bad condition of it. To this end, he later even made provisions for necessary to improve the road. Thus, he initiated the four-lane highway project and also laid the foundation stone of what later became the Indira Gandhi Sports Stadium at Meriema, about seven kms North of Kohima.
However, what endeared him to the Nagas was his recognition and acceptance, of the unique Naga History and Political aspirations. He also re-affirmed the ongoing Cease-Fire between Govt. of India and NSCN (IM). Till today, the cease-fire has not backfired and it has also been extended to other factions now termed as Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs).
It is to be hoped that with such kind of Indian leaders, all the various Naga groups come together under one umbrella and that Prime Minister will not cheat the Nagas at this juncture. As it is, each leader of these groups along with church leaders and Naga citizens in general, are acutely aware that unless we all unite_together, hating and fighting within the Naga family will bring no lasting solution to the decades-long Naga issue.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee also did not undermine the Naga concept and practice of democracy. We can even say that he was a true philosopher of God because he loved Christians. For instance, following the burning alive of Missionary Graham Staines and his two sons in Cuttack, Odisha, he said, “ I hang my head in shame”. He begged forgiveness and promised that his Government would ensure that no such atrocity will be repeated.
Accordingly, many Christians appreciated this gesture and prayed for his long life. So God extended his life. Nagas pay full tribute to Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his kindly treatment and understanding of the Naga way of life and political aspirations.
May his soul rest in peace.
