Speech of Gen. (Retd.) T. M Rhakho, Kedahge, FGN on Naga Independence Day

My dear countrymen,

On this historic day, the 14th of August 2025, as we celebrate the 79th years of Naga Independence, I take this privileged to once again address you on behalf of the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN).

It is neither human wisdom nor ability but only by the grace of God that we manage to join in today’s celebration of the 79th Independence Day for which we are thankful to almighty God in all humility.

Today, history reveals that our people had experienced more than fair share of misfortune in the cause of our history due to conflict of ideology and different methodical approach to a common cause and goal. We must no longer allow personal convictions orgroupism interests to override our national integrity and the law of our land.

Experience over the past eight decades reveals that the aggressors have failed to achieve their design, but we Nagas continue to play into their hand. At no time or under any circumstances will our National cause be jeopardised due to the design of occupational force and their agents nor internal dissidence in our land

The infamous Shillong Accord of 1975 was deeply divisive among the Nagas, culminating in mushrooming of different factions and blood-shed among Naga brethren. The blood, tears and sacrifices of thousands of Naga patriots will not be bartered for Shillong Accord or any other agreement with Government of India. The NNC/FGN will never accept any Accord or agreement within the Union of India and will never settle for anything less than sovereignty. Let us be reminded once again that our rights are deeply instilled in historical declaration. The declaration of Independence on 14th August 1947, a day before India attained her Independence from the British.

This is strategic because it speaks of our mind and our preparation knowing what may come upon us. This declaration of Independence finds its attestation in the historic voluntary National Plebiscite of May 16th 1951. Nagas at this moment are at Crossroads. With every passing year we are given new talking point other than what we stood for. Our sacrifices cannot be bought and our sovereignty can never be compromised.

Our political struggles have come of age. But we must acknowledge that no worldly power or our struggles can compete against the mighty India. It is only through the Holy Spirit that our almighty can deliver us to our promised land. Our forebearers have declared our land and our people to Christ and have proclaimed “Nagaland for Christ”. We have made a covenant with ‘Jehovah’ so we must surrender all of our control and trust that he will lead us into light. He has enabled us to overcome many hardships in the process of our struggle and brought us thus far. He shall not let us down even in the days to come, provided we too continue to obey his desires and have faith in him.

As we celebrate this historic day, let us renew our spirit, our commitment and our dedication to the service of the nation. Much has been sacrificed but much is still demanded from us. We honour and celebrate the sacrifice of all patriots who gave their all for the nation. I congratulate everyone in service to the nation for standing to our national cause.

My salute to the recipients of the awards and commendation. You are the torch and you must hand it down with courage and pride. We must move forward with our head lifted high until we find our rightful place in the history of the world.

 Happy Naga Independence Day.

Urrauvie

Kuknalim