Imphal: The Mao Council gathered at Mao Island on Thursday to mark the 79th Naga Martyrs’ Day. Organized under the United Naga Council, the event honored those killed during the 1948 anti-tax protest at Mao Gate. Prayers, speeches, and wreath-laying ceremonies filled the day. Participants observed a minute of silence for the dead.
Mao Council President N. Athikho Joseph traced the 1948 origins of the No-Tax Campaign. Athikho Daihrii Mao and N. Modoli, leaders of the Naga National League, launched the movement against Manipur government taxes. Police and Assam Rifles arrested the pair, eventually jailing them at Dum Dum Central Jail in Calcutta.
Demonstrators took to the streets on August 27, 1948. Assam Rifles opened fire. Three volunteers died instantly: Asosii Hepuni of Punanamei village, along with Mahrili Lohrii and Modo Kholi of Kalinamei village. Others suffered bullet wounds, beatings, and assault by lathis. Some victims died from their injuries later.
Injured protesters included Daikho Hesho of Chawang/Chaiwangamai Khullen, plus Obu Adani, Kaisii Mathibo, and Obu Ashiho, all from Punanamei. The Mao Council provided financial aid to surviving families.
UNC President Ng. Lorho used the platform to demand unity. He linked the historic struggle to the current Naga-Kuki conflict. Lorho alleged that recent violence at Taphou involved Kuki groups burning their own homes to frame Nagas. He warned of further destruction. Lorho stated, "Their blood, tears and vision for the Nagas should never be forgotten down in the line of history, because that is the foundation of who we are and everything we hope to be."
Attendees included the Naga Women Union, Mao Naga Women Welfare Association, and various tribal leaders. Lorho urged the community to stand firm. He said, "The Nagas must never compromise or surrender their rights, identity, or aspirations."
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