Photo Courtesy: ukhrultimes
Imphal: The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) observed its 13th Martyrs’ Remembrance Day on Friday at the Martyrs Memorial Park in Kapaam village. The event honored nine Naga martyrs, serving as a solemn tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the community's aspirations. Former ANSAM President Kho John opened the ceremony with a flag-hoisting ritual, followed by a formal gun salute and wreath-laying proceedings.
ANSAM President Th. Angteshang Maring spoke to the crowd about the historical weight of the sacrifices made by individuals such as Shelley Chara, Ashun R. Jangvei, and Nili Chakho Mao. He also acknowledged recent losses in areas like Leilon Vaiphei and TM Khullen, calling for impartial justice and lasting peace. Addressing the necessity of cohesion, Maring stated, “History does not remember those who yielded to division. It remembers those who stood together with courage, dignity and wisdom.”
Representatives from the Naga Women’s Union and the Naga Students’ Federation used the occasion to reflect on the prolonged search for political resolution. Naga Students’ Federation leader Mteisuding described the current Naga-Kuki conflict as a critical test for the community, insisting that threats against any single Naga must be treated as a collective concern. The Global Naga Forum also questioned the lack of progress in the long-standing struggle for self-determination.
The event concluded with solidarity speeches and musical tributes. Civil society groups, church leaders, and tribal representatives joined the families of the fallen to reaffirm their commitment to the Naga legacy. Participants emphasized that the younger generation must now carry the responsibility of maintaining unity across regional borders.
Comments