The Naga people have a long and complex history of struggle
for self-determination. From the early days of resistance against colonial rule
to the protracted negotiations for political recognition, our journey has been
marked by sacrifices, courage, and an unyielding spirit.
Yet, despite the determination of our ancestors, the dream
of true sovereignty remains elusive. Today, as we reflect on the past, it
becomes clear that disunity has been one of the greatest obstacles to achieving
our common aspirations. The time has come for the Naga youth to rise above past
divisions and forge a new path toward our shared future.
The Naga movement for self-determination can be traced back
to the early 20th century when our leaders first articulated our distinct
identity. The formation of the Naga Club in 1918 and the subsequent submission
of the Naga Memorandum to the Simon Commission in 1929 laid the foundation for
our demand to remain free from external domination. After India’s independence,
the Naga National Council (NNC) carried forward this vision, culminating in the
1951 Naga plebiscite, where an overwhelming majority voted in favour of sovereignty.
Our ancestors were united by a common goal, and their
collective determination was unwavering. They stood shoulder to shoulder,
fighting against oppression and injustice. Their sacrifices were immense—many
gave their lives, endured hardships, and withstood betrayals, all for the sake
of our future generations. Their unity was their greatest strength, enabling
them to resist external pressures and keep the Naga identity alive.
However, as years passed, internal divisions weakened the
movement. Political differences, personal ambitions, and external influences
led to splits within our leadership. Instead of marching forward together, our
leaders became entangled in disputes, causing stagnation in our struggle. The
once-unified force fractured into multiple factions, diluting the strength and
purpose of our movement.
Today, the Naga national movement is plagued by more than 26
factions, each claiming to represent the true cause. These divisions have not
only weakened our position but have also placed an enormous economic burden on
our people. Illegal taxation by multiple groups has crippled businesses,
drained our economy, and instilled fear among the common people. Instead of
being a source of strength, these factions have become an obstacle to progress,
sowing distrust and frustration among the Naga populace.
The fragmentation is not limited to political groups
alone—our civil societies, which once played a crucial role in guiding and
safeguarding our interests, are also divided. Instead of working in unison for
the welfare of our people, many organisations are driven by individual
interests, often working at cross purposes. This has further weakened our
collective voice and made it easier for external forces to exploit our
differences.
Despite these challenges, there is hope. The Naga youths
have a crucial role to play in reviving and redirecting our struggle. We have
witnessed the failures of past leadership, and we must learn from their
mistakes. Instead of continuing the legacy of division, we must unite under a
common cause. Our generation has access to education, technology, and global
awareness—tools that can be leveraged to reshape our future.
Encouragingly, many Naga youth are already working to bridge
the gaps that have long divided us. Various platforms and initiatives are
emerging to bring together young minds under one umbrella, fostering dialogue,
collaboration, and a renewed sense of brotherhood. We must nurture these
efforts and ensure that our generation does not fall into the same cycle of
disunity that has plagued our elders.
If the Naga youth wish to achieve what our elders failed to
accomplish, we must adopt a new approach—one that prioritises unity over
factionalism, progress over stagnation, and collective aspirations over
individual gains. We must reject the culture of division and work together,
transcending tribal and political boundaries. Only through unity can we break
free from the shackles of history and carve a new destiny for the Naga people.
To all the learned and visionary Naga youth, the future of
our people rests in your hands. We must rise above personal differences, tribal
divisions, and political allegiances. Let us work together in unison and
brotherhood, keeping the spirit of our ancestors alive. Our struggle is not over,
but with determination, integrity, and unity, we can finally achieve the
aspirations that have evaded us for generations.
For the Naga youth to truly make a difference, we must rise
above bias and refuse to take sides based on factions, organisations, or tribal
affiliations. Our loyalty should be to the Naga cause, not to fragmented groups
that continue to divide us. We must have the courage to call a spade a spade,
to speak the truth even when it is uncomfortable, and to challenge any actions
that go against the interests of our people. It is our responsibility to stand
firmly against anti-Naga activities—whether they come from external forces or
from within our own society. We must persuade the various factions of national
workers to set aside their differences and unite under one common umbrella. We
must strengthen them by bringing them together for achieving our long standing
aspirations and not weaken ourselves by taking sides.
The future of our struggle depends on a strong, united
front, and it is the duty of this generation to demand accountability, reject
factionalism, and push for genuine, collective leadership that serves the
interests of all Nagas.
The time for change is now. Let us stand together as one
people, one voice, and for one future.
