The Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) concluded the 24th edition of the LSU Martyrs’ Trophy 2025 at the local ground in Wokha, with R.M. Lotha (Major Retd.), President, GPRN/NSCN, as the special guest for the closing ceremony.
The 24th edition culminated with a match between Tsumang Youth and Vungoju Youth Forum where Tsumang Youth defeated Vungoju Youth Forum with a score of 3-2.
Speaking at the event, Lotha acknowledged the two martyrs who sacrificed their lives on April 14, 1977, stating that the gathering was not for merrymaking but to grieve and honor their sacrifices. Their actions were not for posterity or pride but for standing up for truth and rights, protecting the identity, land, and people of the Lotha community, stated Lotha.
He also emphasised that the history of the Lothas is marked by the sweat, tears, and blood of past leaders. Inviting the gathering to revisit the past and reflect on their sacrifices, Lotha urged them to focus not on the pain and grief of the martyrs but to come together in unity for peace, dignity, freedom with purpose, and identity with pride.
Lotha also informed the gathering about the Naga National movement and its government’s efforts to protect the people, land, and resources. He urged the attendees to extend their support for the cause. Expressing concern over the artificial boundary creation and fencing of the Indo-Myanmar border, he termed it as a mechanism by the central government to divide the Nagas.
Lotha also highlighted that the Agreed Position between the Government of India and NNPGs clearly mentions that the Indian Passport Act should be exempted to allow free movement within 35 miles on both sides of the Indo-Myanmar border.
The need for the student community to strengthen the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873, also known as the Inner Line Regulation was also stressed.
He urged the student community and future leaders to move forward with vision and invited individuals to pray for the Naga National Workers. He stated, “Today, more than ever, Nagas need to come together, be united, and rise to the occasion to determine our future for ourselves.”
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Ebibemo Lotha, Tatar Hoho Speaker, GPRN/NSCN, also highlighted the pressing issue of the prolonged Indo-Naga political conflict. He expressed optimism that the wait is nearing its end and the struggle must soon conclude with the two signed agreements—the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position. He mentioned that Naga political leaders are in touch with stakeholders, including apex tribal leaders, to draft a common proposal within the framework of the two agreements and submit it to the Indian government to claim a political settlement. He urged the people to continue supporting and praying for an early resolution.
Earlier, a presidential address was delivered by Lirhonthung E. Kithan, President of the LSU, with a commemorative message from Ejanthung Ngullie, State Coordinator, NESO.
Greetings were also delivered by Chumbemo T. Ngullie, Joint Secretary, Lotha Hoho, and Nzano P. Kikon, Deputy Chairperson, WTC.
The program was invoked by Benathung Mozhui, Associate Youth Director, WTBC, chaired by Fuchamo Odyuo, General Secretary, ERSU, while the vote of thanks was pronounced by Chiben Kikon, Assembly Secretary, Union Assembly, LSU.
