RM Lotha addressing the closing ceremony of the 24th edition
of the LSU Martyrs’ Trophy.
WOKHA — Tsumang Youth defeated Vungoju Youth
Forum 3-2 in the final of the 24th edition of the LSU Martyrs’ Trophy played at
Wokha town local ground on Monday.
The closing ceremony of the event was attended by RM Lotha
(Major Retd.), president of the GPRN/NSCN, as the special guest.
In his address, the GPRN/NSCN president acknowledged the two
martyrs who sacrificed their lives on April 14, 1977, and said that that the
occasion was not for merrymaking but to grieve and honour their sacrifices.
Lotha emphasised that their (martyrs) actions were not for
pride but for standing up for truth and rights, protecting the identity, land,
and people of the Lotha community.
He underscored that the history of the Lothas is marked by
the sweat, tears, and blood of past leaders. He invited individuals to revisit
the past and reflect on their sacrifices, urging them to focus not on the pain
and grief of the martyrs but to come together in unity for peace, dignity,
freedom with purpose, and identity with pride.
Lotha also informed the gathering about the Naga national
movement and the GPRN/NSCN’s efforts to protect the people, land, and
resources. He urged the attendees to extend their support for the cause.
He expressed concern over the proposed fencing of the
Indo-Myanmar border, describing it as a mechanism by the central government to
divide the Nagas.
Lotha further emphasised that the student community must act
as a catalyst in strengthening the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873,
also known as the Inner Line Regulation.
Ebibemo Lotha, Tatar Hoho Speaker, GPRN/NSCN, also
highlighted the pressing issue of the prolonged Indo-Naga political conflict.
Earlier, the presidential address was delivered by LSU
president Lirhonthung E Kithan, followed by a commemorative message from
Ejanthung Ngullie, state coordinator, NESO.
