Brig (Retd) S Singnya
Kedahge, NNC/FGN
My dear Nagas,
For many years, we have observed the anniversary of the Naga Plebiscite on the 16th of May each year. Since the historic Plebiscite of 1952, many years have passed and many of our great leaders and participants who were responsible for this historic event have long departed from this world. Unless we urgently recapture this vision that inspired our people in those days to make the Plebiscite a reality, everything connected to it may gradually fade into cold and lifeless history. We must uphold it as a living part of our heritage and transform it into a symbol of hope, unity, and victory for our tomorrow.
Today, with the changing times, some among us may question the importance of such an event in our history, while others may doubt the relevance of commemorating this day itself. Yet, for those who love our nation and our land, it remains one of the strongest foundation pillars of our rights to live as a people with identity, dignity, and freedom. The 16th May Plebiscite is a “decree of the Naga people”; it is both a law and an oath that we have given unto ourselves. The Plebiscite was conducted with utmost solemnity. Some placed their thumb impressions with their own blood, and true to their commitment, they stood firmly behind the Naga National Cause through thick and thin, fully convinced that they were doing so for the freedom of their children and generations yet to come. They did it for us.
We must never forget that the oath of the Plebiscite provided the unshakable foundation for the rise of many great leaders in our midst. It gave honour, legitimacy and authority to those who led the Naga Movement for self-determination to greater heights.
For all who love the land and the people, history continues to teach and inspire us, because no vision for the future can ever be complete without an understanding of our past. The blood and sweat shed by our people in upholding their Plebiscite commitment have given us the voice to speak and the courage to stand for ourselves with dignity and respect today.
The call of the Plebiscite, seventy-six years ago, was an expression of our unity. Before it, we had no common goal that united us as one people. It is never too late to learn from our noble history. Now is our time. We must reflect deeply and make our stand for our tomorrow, for those who will come after us, just as those before us sacrificed for the sake of our today. May God grant us the wisdom and courage to uphold the legacy of those who showed us the path of self-respect, unity and freedom.
Kuknalim
