An Appeal For Reconciliation, Unity And Brotherhood Among Naga Leaders ; Shared Naga Identity and Collective Political Aspiration
The Naga Labour Corps’ expedition overseas during the First World War exposed the Nagas to new experiences and broadened their understanding of a shared Naga identity. Their encounters abroad helped foster a common political consciousness and aspiration, which was later articulated in the memorandum submitted by the Naga Club to the Simon Commission of British India on 10 January 1929. The return of the Labour Corps members in 1918 further contributed to the growth of political awareness among the Nagas, as their experiences in Europe strengthened a broader sense of unity and collective identity. Since then, the Nagas have continued to uphold and pursue this shared aspiration.
The Naga people share a common history, identity, and political aspiration rooted in brotherhood and peaceful coexistence. Since the formation of the Naga Club in 1918, the first political voice of the Nagas, our forefathers envisioned a united Naga family bound by mutual respect, customary practices, and collective future. The legacy of 1918 to 2026 reminds us that Naga unity has always been our greatest strength.
Our journey through the decades from peaceful village republics to the modern political movement has been guided by the principles of dialogue, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Even in the most challenging times, Nagas have resolved differences through customary peace-making, Christian values of “forgive and forget,” and the unbreakable bond of blood brotherhood among all Naga tribes.
In light of the recent statements made by R.H. Raising, V.S. Atem, and Hon’ble MLA Achumbemo Kikon against our respected Naga veteran leader, Dr. S.C. Jamir a statesman who has witnessed and shaped Naga political history from the Naga People’s Convention to statehood and beyond we earnestly appeal for reconciliation in an individual capacity, in the true Christian spirit and Naga customary spirit of peace.
We believe that any personal remarks made by individuals should be reconciled in an individual capacity, and should not be viewed as the official stand of the NSCN-IM or any Naga national political group. At the same time, we earnestly believe that the NSCN-IM, as a mature organisation representing the political aspirations of the Naga people, will exercise wisdom and maturity to strengthen more cordial public relations with the Ao Naga Tribe and all Naga tribes.
As Nagas who are true believers in Christ, we must not forget the Christian principle of “forgive and forget” through genuine reconciliation among Naga brethren. We advocate for unity, peace, and reconciliation throughout our historical journey until today. Nagas are peace-loving people; therefore, a true Naga patriot never shies away from peace and brotherhood. Our shared identity as Nagas transcends individual differences, and our shared political aspiration for dignity, honour, and self-determination can only be achieved through unity.
We humbly appeal to our respected leaders of today to set living example for the Naga community and the upcoming generation demonstrating through action, not words alone, that today’s leaders believe in unity and true brotherhood. It is essential that R.H. Raising, V.S. Atem, and Achumbemo Kikon, in their individual capacities, reconcile with Dr. S.C. Jamir in the true spirit of reconciliation, unity, peace, and brotherhood, and bring this controversial issue to a close. Let us show the world that Naga leaders forgive in Christ and unite in blood.
It may be mentioned that no Naga national political group or political party can survive without the support of a public mandate or without alienating any Naga tribe. The Naga political aspiration is a collective dream of all tribes. Therefore, it is essential that every organisation maintain neutrality toward every Naga tribe and work collectively for the Naga political aspiration, keeping alive the vision of the Naga Club 1918 Unity in Diversity, Strength in Brotherhood.
Time passes quickly, but history remains alive in our lives. It is part of the legacy we live on. We trust that wisdom, faith, and a commitment to peace will guide our leaders toward reconciliation and a brighter future for all Nagas. Kuknalim!
~ Unified Nagaland For Christ (UNFC): Myanmar, Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal & Assam
(The views expressed are those of the writer and not of the newspaper)
