Kohima: On Friday, history echoed across Khuochiezie (local ground) as thousands of Nagas gathered to reaffirm a declaration first made on May 16, 1951—a collective assertion for a sovereign and independent Naga nation. The commemoration marked the 75th anniversary of the Naga Plebiscite, a significant moment in Naga political history that continues to shape narratives of identity, resistance, and unresolved aspirations.
Organised by the Naga National Council (NNC) and the Naga Plebiscite Commission, the event drew a mixed crowd of tribal representatives, church leaders, and surviving participants of the original plebiscite. Together, they proclaimed in unison a renewed declaration that highlighted the principles of Naga unity, nationalism, and sovereignty.
“On this historic day, we reaffirm Naga unity and our collective position as a free nation. We proclaim to uphold the mandate of Naga plebiscite of May 16, 1951, for independence and sovereignty of our distinct nation. We reiterate our unwavering stand on the founding NNC principles under one institution with one vision. We remember and accord our fullest honour, respect and recognition to our visionary pioneers and national workers who sacrificed their lives for our collective dream. We solemnly declare to nurture our story and ensure that the baton of our birthright, heritage and indelible living history is passed on to our children. We acknowledge that God is with us and guiding us in the making of our history and our nation. Therefore, let us reason together. So help us God,” the declaration read.
Nearly 99.9% of Nagas affirmed their support for a “Sovereign Nagaland” by giving their thumb impression during the plebiscite held on May 16, 1951—a landmark event in the Naga political movement.
Two surviving participants of the 1951 plebiscite, Putha Tunyi (Chakhesang region) and Siesa Yano (Angami region), were honoured during the ceremony, offering a powerful intergenerational link to the early days of Naga political mobilisation. AZ Phizo’s iconic 1951 Plebiscite speech was read by participants representing various tribes, evoking a time when the Naga struggle was still unfragmented and guided by a singular vision.
The Naga Plebiscite was originally organised by the NNC to ascertain the will of the Naga people regarding their political future. It claimed an overwhelming mandate for independence, a claim that has remained central to Naga nationalist discourse ever since.
In an interaction with EastMojo, Villo Naleo, convenor of the Planning and Coordination Committee, clarified the purpose behind the commemorative gathering.
He said the event was held in light of the present scenario of Naga nationalism, with an aim to revisit the principles of the 1940s and ’50s—an era marked by unity and the absence of factions. He explained that the idea of the plebiscite was then a shared conviction among all Nagas, and that the goal was to bring together NNC groups that were not involved in peace talks with the Centre, using that common historical foundation.
“There is no political motive—our role is purely that of facilitators,” he added. According to Naleo, the idea was not to challenge the ongoing peace processes involving other Naga Political Groups (NPGs), such as those aligned with the Framework Agreement or the Agreed Position with the Government of India. Rather, the objective was to offer a common ground for all Naga groups—negotiating or otherwise—to engage in collective reflection.
Around 3,000 people participated in the programme, short of the expected 5,000, but he considered the turnout a symbolic success in rekindling a pan-Naga consciousness.
While the event called for unity under one institution and one vision, Naleo acknowledged the complexity of the current political landscape. “The task is huge,” he admitted. “We need to think and gear up. We need to garner patriotism in the right perspective so everyone will live in the right,” Naleo added.
He lamented the missed opportunities over the decades—caused by factionalism, political rivalry, and distrust—but urged Nagas to revive their sense of patriotism and historical purpose. “Nation building is a continuous process and it requires active participation and pro-active political consciousness. Sadly, over the years there have been unhealthy contentions and self-righteous attitudes that have splintered the common interest. But that doesn’t mean we are defeated. Our coming together today is a sign that we are not numb and apathetic to the crisis we are facing,” Naleo said.
The 75th Naga Plebiscite Day unfolded against the backdrop of prolonged and complex negotiations between various Naga groups and the Indian government.
Despite these differing positions, the event served as a reminder of a shared past—one that continues to define the aspirations of generations of Nagas. “We are all first Nagas,” Naleo said, his voice firm. “Blood is thicker than water. Nothing can dilute our brotherhood—if not for our indifferences.”
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