Speech by N Kitovi Zhimomi on the Occasion of Naga Independence Day

Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is the master of Naga history. Our existence as a people and nation, our future, is all determined according to His will. I thank the Lord Almighty for forgiving our individual and corporate trespasses and redeeming us with abundant grace.

I am very clear in my mind that the Indo-Naga political struggle has an extraordinary supernatural guidance throughout the long historical and political march to the present. August 14, 1947 marked the beginning of a new chapter in Naga history as it gave an added pride and belief in the soul of every Naga just as 15th August of each year gives every Indian a sense of being the master over his/her own destiny. A great release from centuries of colonial rule and political slavery.

In 1929, the then British raj partially controlled the Naga country. In 1947, when the British granted Independence to India, the British-controlled Naga areas merged with the free, unoccupied Naga areas to declare self-rule. God foresaw all, nurtured and anointed many fiercely capable Naga leaders in every generation to guide the Naga National movement. The journals and autobiographies of many renowned Indian political emissaries and military generals who encountered the brilliant Naga political and military commanders, stands testimony to this supernatural force that seemed to dwell with the Naga people.

Whether it is a misfortune or a trial by fire to test the willpower, resilience and commitment of the Naga people, there is a mountain of distrust, disloyalty, hatred, defective political orientations, haphazard formation of political groups and civil bodies which have brutalized the Naga movement. The lure of easy money and leadership position has made the Naga political movement a thriving illegal industry to many.

For instance, in the last fifteen years, the enemies of the Naga people have managed to convince many of my trusted senior Kilonsers and Commanders to establish their own groups and governments to weaken the core Naga history, identity and political right. I admit I am not a perfect human being and may have hurt the sentiments of my former comrades, however, on the Naga issue, I have not betrayed anyone to make a person inferior or useless. I do not have any grudge or ill will against them for forming new organisations. On the Naga issue, all are on the same table. One goal, one vision. I am convinced that the Almighty God is speaking to all of us in a mighty way that we will work in equal participation with responsibilities in pursuit of an honorable and acceptable Naga political solution. I believe the ground is prepared for what is best for the Naga people at a present time.