Mokokchung, 15 April (MTNews): The Naga Rising (TNR) has called upon the Naga people to stand firm in defending freedom and democracy, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding their unique identity and rights.
In a statement issued today, TNR highlighted the rich history and heritage of the Naga people, which was passed down by their elders who ardently defended their freedom and birthright. This legacy, according to TNR, is clearly expressed through the Naga Memorandum to the Simon Commission of 1929.
“Our elders’ foresight and vision in recognizing the freedom and rights of the Naga people, while demonstrating the spirit of oneness, should continue to inspire us as a people during these challenging times,” stated TNR.
Amid the discourse surrounding the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, where India will decide its leadership for the next five years, The Naga Rising stressed the significance of defending freedom and democracy. Despite Nagaland having only one Lok Sabha seat, which is very marginal in the Indian political system, TNR urged the people to uphold God-given sovereignty over land and resources and protect the identity and political rights.
“At the end of the day, The Naga Rising believes that we as a people must guard against ‘forces’ detrimental to these values and to our future,” stated TNR.
It also expressed concerns over the Hindu-Hindi nationalist agenda, particularly under the decade-long governance of the Narendra Modi-led BJP government.
“The subtle move towards a Hindu Rashtra (or Hindu Nation) is not a fiction anymore. It is high time to voice out against all attempts to establish a Hindu cultural hegemony in the guise of politics and development,” asserted TNR.
Highlighting contentious issues like the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in the BJP’s 2024 manifesto, TNR pointed out the controversies surrounding these policies and their potential implications for India’s secular credentials. The organization reminded that previous BJP manifestos, including the promise of a Ram temple, have translated into reality.
As India votes to elect the next government, TNR reaffirmed its support for the foundational ideals and values of the Republic of India. Emphasizing the principle of ‘unity in diversity,’ which is central to India’s democratic ethos, federalism (State rights), and religious freedom, the organization called for the preservation of these core principles.
“No force should be allowed to subvert the ideals on which India was founded. The upcoming Lok Sabha election is a moment to send a strong message that we stand for freedom and democracy,” added TNR.