Marking the 79th Naga Independence Day, Ato Kilonser of the GPRN/NSCN, . Kitovi Zhimomi, today called upon all sections of Naga society to rise above political and personal differences to secure an “acceptable and honourable” Indo-Naga political solution. Speaking against the backdrop of over seven decades of political struggle, Kitovi emphasised that the historical spirit of August 14, 1947—when the Naga people chose to remain free and undisturbed—must guide the present generation in resolving the Naga political issue once and for all.

Addressing the gathering at GPRN/NSCN Designated Camp, Khehoyi, Kitovi began by praising Almighty Jehovah for preserving the Naga people and sustaining the Naga national movement. “His Grace and Mercy is sufficient for us,” he said, remembering the pioneers of the movement and the thousands of brave men and women from across the ancestral homeland who had sacrificed their lives for the Naga cause.

“May their offsprings be blessed,” he added, stressing that today’s generation stands on the vision and goal of those leaders who believed in the right to live as a free people.

Kitovi described August 14 as “an immortal date” in Naga history. He recounted how in 1947, the Naga people declared their decision to live as their ancestors had for centuries—“undisturbed, unchained, as a people and nation, free from conquerors and tyrants.”

The pioneers, he noted, were convinced that neither the departing British nor the newly formed independent India had any right to occupy or rule the Naga homeland.

Although much has changed in the world since then, Kitovi said the Naga political movement has “not lost its meaning and soul.” Generations of Indian armies, he recounted, had shed blood in an attempt to capture Naga land, with many soldiers returning “lifeless, draped in the tricolour.”

Yet, he acknowledged the “sad reality” that the land is today administered by India—an outcome of the prolonged political conflict that eventually led to ceasefires and negotiations.

He reflected on the transformation of Naga society, observing that “the fierce Naga warriors of the bygone days are long gone” and that many of their descendants now serve the Indian government. However, he insisted that every Naga—past and present—has played a role in safeguarding the land and identity of the forefathers. For a true Naga patriot, he said, “death was and is a mentally prepared necessary call,” as defending the homeland remains a life well-lived.

Expressing concern over the existence of too many Naga political groups, Kitovi admitted that this has, in some cases, evoked bitterness, shame, and hopelessness among the people. He said these groups arose under various circumstances—some, perhaps, influenced by external agencies or self-interest, while others were genuinely committed to finding a solution to the Naga problem.

Nevertheless, he emphasised that most political groups, barring a few, are in ceasefire or similar arrangements with the Government of India (GoI) and are coordinating efforts to secure a solution based on the Agreed Position signed on November 17, 2017.

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“Securing a political solution for future Naga generations is our goal, and on this crucial historic matter, personal differences amongst us do not matter,” Kitovi declared, adding that this position has been conveyed officially to the GoI. He pointed out that all negotiating entities had completed political talks with the GoI on October 31, 2019, and said that this was not the time for “philosophical theories” but for practical steps towards the impending settlement.

He appealed to the Tribal Hohos, apex civil society organisations, intellectuals, village headmen, the Church, and “all practical thinking Nagas” to work collectively and prepare “a robust ground” for the political solution. “We must rise above our differences, threats, fear and intimidations,” he urged, expressing hope and prayer that God’s wisdom would guide the people in this decisive period.

Concluding his address, Kitovi reiterated his faith in the Naga cause and his call for unity. “God bless Nagaland,” he said.

Welcome address was delivered by Hukavi Yeptho, Kilo Kilonser, GPRN/NSCN while members of Working Committee NNPGs also shared their thought.