Aga Rengma
The Naga people have a long and complex history of struggle for self-determination. From the early days of resistance against colonial rule to the protracted negotiations for political recognition, our journey has been marked by sacrifices, courage, and an unyielding spirit. Yet, despite the determination of our ancestors, the dream of true sovereignty remains elusive. Today, as we reflect on the past, it becomes clear that disunity has been one of the greatest obstacles to achieving our common aspirations. The time has come for the Naga youth to rise above past divisions and forge a new path toward our shared future.
The Naga movement for self-determination can be traced back to the early 20th century when our leaders first articulated our distinct identity. The formation of the Naga Club in 1918 and the subsequent submission of the Naga Memorandum to the Simon Commission in 1929 laid the foundation for our demand to remain free from external domination. After India’s independence, the Naga National Council (NNC) carried forward this vision, culminating in the 1951 Naga plebiscite, where an overwhelming majority voted in favor of sovereignty.
Our ancestors were united by a common goal, and their collective determination was unwavering. They stood shoulder to shoulder, fighting against oppression and injustice. Their sacrifices were immense—many gave their lives, endured hardships, and withstood betrayals, all for the sake of our future generations. Their unity was their greatest strength, enabling them to resist external pressures and keep the Naga identity alive.
However, as years passed, internal divisions weakened the movement. Political differences, personal ambitions, and external influences led to splits within our leadership. Instead of marching forward together, our leaders became entangled in disputes, causing stagnation in our struggle. The once-unified force fractured into multiple factions, diluting the strength and purpose of our movement.
Today, the Naga national movement is plagued by more than 26 factions, each claiming to represent the true cause. These divisions have not only weakened our position but have also placed an enormous economic burden on our people. Illegal taxation by multiple groups has crippled businesses, drained our economy, and instilled fear among the common people. Instead of being a source of strength, these factions have become an obstacle to progress, sowing distrust and frustration among the Naga populace.
The fragmentation is not limited to political groups alone—our civil societies, which once played a crucial role in guiding and safeguarding our interests, are also divided. Instead of working in unison for the welfare of our people, many organizations are driven by individual interests, often working at cross purposes. This has further weakened our collective voice and made it easier for external forces to exploit our differences.
Despite these challenges, there is hope. The Naga youths have a crucial role to play in reviving and redirecting our struggle. We have witnessed the failures of past leadership, and we must learn from their mistakes. Instead of continuing the legacy of division, we must unite under a common cause. Our generation has access to education, technology, and global awareness—tools that can be leveraged to reshape our future.
Encouragingly, many Naga youth are already working to bridge the gaps that have long divided us. Various platforms and initiatives are emerging to bring together young minds under one umbrella, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and a renewed sense of brotherhood. We must nurture these efforts and ensure that our generation does not fall into the same cycle of disunity that has plagued our elders.
If the Naga youth wish to achieve what our elders failed to accomplish, we must adopt a new approach—one that prioritizes unity over factionalism, progress over stagnation, and collective aspirations over individual gains. We must reject the culture of division and work together, transcending tribal and political boundaries. Only through unity can we break free from the shackles of history and carve a new destiny for the Naga people.
To all the learned and visionary Naga youth, the future of our people rests in your hands. We must rise above personal differences, tribal divisions, and political allegiances. Let us work together in unison and brotherhood, keeping the spirit of our ancestors alive. Our struggle is not over, but with determination, integrity, and unity, we can finally achieve the aspirations that have evaded us for generations.
For the Naga youth to truly make a difference, we must rise above bias and refuse to take sides based on factions, organizations, or tribal affiliations. Our loyalty should be to the Naga cause, not to fragmented groups that continue to divide us. We must have the courage to call a spade a spade, to speak the truth even when it is uncomfortable, and to challenge any actions that go against the interests of our people. It is our responsibility to stand firmly against anti-Naga activities—whether they come from external forces or from within our own society. We must persuade the various factions of national workers to set aside their differences and unite under one common umbrella. We must strengthen them by bringing them together for achieving our long standing aspirations and not weaken ourselves by taking sides.
The future of our struggle depends on a strong, united front, and it is the duty of this generation to demand accountability, reject factionalism, and push for genuine, collective leadership that serves the interests of all Nagas.
The time for change is now. Let us stand together as one people, one voice, and for one future.
Aga Rengma,
Interim Convenor, Western Naga Youth Front