Speech of Gen. Ningkhan Shimray – Mc, Vc, Longvibu, Naga Army on Naga Army Day Celebration, 11 January, 2024, General Headquarters, Naga Army
Naga Army Day once observed on January 3rd but now on January 11th, symbolizes the essence of our existence: as a revolutionary army, we stand as torchbearers of political consciousness, warriors for Christ, steadfastly championing noble cause that resonate at the core of our collective aspirations, striving for a future steeped in justice and righteousness. Today, as we pay homage to the martyred Naga Army, we stand on the unwavering commitment they made- sacrificing their tomorrows for our brighter tomorrow under the sovereign nation of the Nagas.
We staunchly advocate for our rights and the establishment of the kingdom of God. Ours is a movement rooted in the pursuit of freedom and a tireless struggle. While we possess guns for self-defense, we recognize that these weapons do not define our strategy or shape our future. Instead, our trajectory hinges on political guidance, counsel, and advice from our esteemed party leaders, illuminating the path toward our destined destination. As dedicated soldiers aligned with a political party, our unwavering commitment resides in faithfully following the directives. Our unity thrives on the noble vision of Nagalim for Christ and the larger interests of the national party.
Every action, strategy, or initiative we undertake remains firmly rooted in the fundamental principles of our party. Any endeavour straying from these principles mirrors an attempt to grasp power through force- an approach antithetical to our ethos. And to lead a revolutionary army devoid of these values is to court perilous ground, breeding conflict not just within ourselves but also antagonism toward the very essence of our party’s principles. Upholding these principles is not just a mandate but also the essence that safeguards the sanctity of our cause and ensures a collective, unwavering journey toward our shared vision.
The pivotal role of the Naga Army is not to exploit the deficiencies within the National movement or its leadership. Instead, our purpose resonates in rectifying errors and wholeheartedly backing the National policies- a hallmark of a genuine revolutionary army. We, as the Naga Army, embody the spirit of a sacrificial offering, willingly volunteering to serve the noble cause of our national interests until our very last breath.
In our collective consciousness, nobody supersedes the sanctity of the nation and the law- known as “Azha”- nor stands beyond the bounds of the constitution, termed “Yezhabo”. The moment we falter in upholding these foundational principles, we regress into a lawless, reactionary entity.
The overarching goal and purpose of the Naga Army reside in serving as a catalyst for the emancipation of our people. Within the fabric of our entity, there exists no room for distinctions of clan, village, or tribe; instead, we coalesce as one unified family. Bound together by a singular cause, unwavering faith, and a shared destination, we transcend individual differences, standing as a unified front, resolute in our pursuit of freedom for our people wherever they are, transcending borders.
Saint Paul’s testimony, “I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven” underscores his victory in life’s battles. Similarly, let us emulate exemplary soldiers, unwaveringly fixated on the vision of Nagalim for Christ, remaining steadfastly loyal to our national cause. Colonel Hopeson Ningshen, like Saint Paul, willingly endured suffering and imprisonment, valiantly shielding and preserving the national interests and dignity. His ethos epitomizes the notion that rather than allowing the nation to bear shame, he would shoulder it by himself. Embracing the spirit of the Naga revolutionary movement, let us internalize this commitment. And may we also embody a spirit where personal sacrifice for the greater good eclipses personal comfort, thereby upholding the sanctity of our vision and the dignity of our nation.
We stand ready to recommit ourselves, reaffirming our sacred vows to both the Almighty and our beloved nation. Once again, our unwavering dedication aligns with the noble vision of Nagalim for Christ and the timeless pursuit of the Naga freedom movement. It is Paramount to discard any personal “isms” or narrow ideologies, focusing solely on the collective goals of our nation.
The Naga Army does not possess the autonomy or authority to dictate the national political course. Our solemn duty lies in wholeheartedly following leaders anointed by God. We acknowledge our lack of mandate to independently shape our Naga future; the directives of our chosen leaders determine our path. And we recognize that exceptional leadership emerges from devoted followership and responding to God’s calling not just by worldly standards but of God.
Our duty is dual-fold: to diligently strive, knowing that the power to construct or dismantle lies within our grasp. Let us unify in an unbreakable pledge- to unwaveringly uphold the national cause, the vision of Nagalim for Christ, to honour the principles enshrined within the Framework Agreement, and to faithfully heed the guidance of our esteemed leaders. This allegiance paves the path toward a future where our united efforts bring forth progress, solidarity, and the realization of our dreams.
Long live Naga revolutionary movement, long live Naga revolutionary army, long live NSCN!
Longvibu Naga Army
KUKNALIM!