The ‘75th Naga Plebiscite Day’ was solemnly commemorated on Friday at Khuochiezie (Kohima Local Ground) by the Naga National Council (NNC), in collaboration with tribal apex bodies, church organisations, and the Naga Plebiscite Commission, marking a significant reaffirmation of the Naga people’s enduring political aspiration for sovereignty and unity.
The event highlighted the historic significance of May 16, 1951, when the Nagas, under the leadership of NNC, overwhelmingly voted in favour of an independent Naga nation. One of the most poignant moments of the day was the felicitation of surviving participants of the 1951 plebiscite, with Putha Tunyi (Chakhesang region) and Siesa Yano (Angami region) present and honoured for their role in the historic decision.
Names of several other surviving signatories who were unable to attend in person were also announced and acknowledged, including Sümatho Nyusou, Khathiepa Nyusou, Rasütho Nyuwi, Rüguozelie Chakrüno, T. Imchen, Kavamu Kezo, Alemchiba Waromung, and Kürethi Vero, among others—marking a moment of collective remembrance and reverence.
The event was also attended by NNC president Adinno Phizo (93 years) daughter of Angami Zapu Phizo. A powerful shared reading of the 1951 address by A.Z. Phizo, the late NNC president, was delivered by a group of readers comprising both clergy and youth leaders.
The reading rekindled the historical vision that galvanized a generation of Nagas to affirm their national identity and assert their political will.
One of the main highlights of the programme was the reaffirmation of the ‘Naga Declaration’, a public proclamation that renewed the community’s pledge to uphold the 1951 plebiscite mandate. The declaration reaffirmed Naga unity, sovereignty, and the founding principles of the NNC, asserting the people’s enduring commitment to pass on the legacy to future generations under divine guidance.
Dr. Villo Naleo, convenor of the Planning and Coordination Committee, delivered the welcome address. Extending greetings to participants, tribal leaders, and guests, he emphasized that the survival and identity of the Naga people were not accidental but divinely ordained, referencing Acts 17:26 to underscore that every nation is formed with a purpose.
Dr. Naleo recounted milestones in the Naga political journey—from the 1929 memorandum to the Simon Commission to the Naga Declaration of Independence on August 14, 1947. He paid tribute to the pioneers who endured persecution and hardship in defence of Naga dignity and national consciousness.
Acknowledging internal divisions over the decades, Dr. Naleo expressed concern over missed opportunities but encouraged continued nation-building through unity, participation, and reflection. “We must ask ourselves if our present disunity serves the vision of our pioneers,” he urged, emphasizing that Naga identity transcends imposed boundaries and must be defended through collective commitment.
The programme began with scripture reading and invocation by Rev. Dr. Visor H. Zeliang, followed by the Naga National Anthem, led by the Union Baptist Church, Kohima.
Other cultural and reflective moments included an elegy on A.Z. Phizo written by Methaneilie Jütakhrie and performed by Dethosilie Sorhie, a folk song by the Chakhesang Cultural Organisation, and a cultural performance by the Khiamniungan Cultural Group.
The reaffirmation reading and prayer were led by Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao, while Dr. Toshinaro Longchar, on behalf of the Naga Plebiscite Commission, proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with a benediction by Rev. Fr. Mhabemo Lotha.
Vitono Haralu and Neidilhoutuo Sechü chaired the commemorative event that was deeply reflective and resolute in tone, underlining that the spirit of the 1951 plebiscite remains alive and foundational in the Naga political journey.
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