A programme commemorating the 126th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was observed in Chesezu village in Phek district on 18 January with Deputy Commissioner Phek Kumar Ramnikant, IAS, as the chief guest.

According to a DIPR report, the programme also marked a part of the 75th Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations.

In his speech, the DC said during Netaji’s time, the country of India was living under the tyranny of British rule. He said Netaji came to Chesezu fighting for the freedom of the country   and that Chesezu was fortunate to witness the inspiration, motivation and teachings of Netaji.

Bose qualified for the Civil Service at the age of 21 but he declined to work under the British and he never compromised with injustice, the DC said.

DC Phek Kumar Ramnikant hoisted the national flag at the Watch Tower of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose in Chesezu village on 18 January. (Credit: IA Chozuba)

Ramnikant urged Chesezu village to maintain the statue of Bose and assured the gathering that the district administration would also give its best. Chesezu is on the world map as Netaji was in the village, he added.

The DC also appealed to the large gathering for a free and fair election in the forthcoming general elections, and added: “Great names have great responsibilities therefore Chesezu should be a model village.”

Keduosie-u M Rio, director of tourism, unveiled the Watch Tower of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose for which the funding agency was the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and the project executed by the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland.

Vezo Swuro, a surviving close associate of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, was present at the iconic event and felicitated by the Deputy Commissioner.

Earlier, a welcome speech was delivered by the chairman of Chesezu Village Council.

The unfurling of the national flag by the deputy commissioner of Phek was followed by the playing of the national anthem.

The highlights of the programme were the cultural performance by Chesezu villagers and a presentation titled ‘Netaji slogan – a tribute to Netaji’ by the Sunday school children of Chetheba Town Baptist Church.

The words of gratitude were expressed by EAC Chozuba. The ceremony was presided over by Nyamok N Konyak, the extra assistant commissioner of Chetheba.

On Wednesday, the 126th birth anniversary of Netaji was also observed in Ruzazho village in Phek district with Maj Gen Vikas Lakhera, SM, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North).

IGAR (N) Maj Gen Vikas Lakhera felicitating the cultural troupe at Netaji’s 126th birth anniversary programme in Ruzazho village on 18 January. (Credit: IA Chozuba)

Lakhera said Netaji visited Ruzazho in 1944 and marked it as a historic village for Nagaland and India. He said the Indian Army stands for the achievement of freedom.

Lakhera said the Netaji Memorial Development in Nagaland was for the people.

Cekrolhu Swuro, a living witness of Netaji, released balloons on the occasion, stated the DIPR report.

The welcome address was given by Sesato Swuro, chairman of Ruzazho Village Council.

Jazz Band 1 AR and cultural groups performed at the programme.