Observing the 39th NSF Martyrs’ Day and also as part of the Silver Jubilee edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Trophy, the prestigious trophy was taken to Kohima Village in honor of Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü of Kohima Village and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü of Kigwema Village. The two student martyrs lost their lives on March 20, 1986, during a peaceful protest against the Disturbed Areas Act (DAA) and the introduction of the Indian Police Service (IPS) cadre in Nagaland.
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) solemnly observed the 39th NSF Martyrs’ Day at the NSF Martyrs’ Park, Kohima, commemorating their sacrifice.
The event commenced with the unfurling of the NSF flag at half-mast, followed by an invocation prayer led by Pastor K. Robvii of Mao Baptist Church, Kohima. A major highlight of the day was the official launch of the Trophy Tour for the 25th Anniversary Edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy 2025. The trophy will remain at Kohima Village for three days before being taken to Kigwema Village, symbolizing NSF’s unwavering commitment to preserving the martyrs’ legacy.
Addressing the gathering, NSF President Medovi Rhi paid homage to the martyrs, calling them “true sons of the soil.” Reflecting on the events of 1986, he stated: “Thirty-nine years ago, when the aspirations of the Naga people were shrouded in political despair and uncertainty, our students took to the streets, stepping into the darkness of that time. Though we lost two dear brothers, their martyrdom renewed our hope, our direction, and our ultimate goal for peace—an aspiration that continues to guide us today.”
The 25th anniversary edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy is set to take place from September 13 to October 18, 2025. In a departure from tradition, the event will be hosted in both Kohima and Chümoukedima for the first time, expanding its reach beyond the state capital.