The Pfutsero Town Business Association (PTBA) will observe a half-day shutdown on August 14, 2026, until 12 noon, as a mark of respect and remembrance for the sacrifices of the forefathers and in recognition of the historical journey and aspirations of the Naga people.
The observance would be held on the theme, “Our Shared History, Our Common Future: A Call for Naga Unity, Reconciliation and Oneness.”
PTBA President, Vekusu Chuzho said the half-day closure was intended to honour the sacrifices of the forefathers and acknowledge the cooperation extended by national workers towards the business community in Phek district.
He said the occasion should also serve as an opportunity to strengthen unity among Naga political groups and work towards a common political future.
“We respect and remember the sacrifices of our forefathers and the contribution of our national workers. At the same time, we believe that the present generation has a responsibility to work towards greater unity,” Chuzho said, adding that the aspiration should be to see all groups come together under one government, with the process of unity beginning from within the districts.
Chuzho further said the business community had consistently advocated the principle of “One Government, One Tax”, noting that multiple taxation and collections directly affect businesses and the local economy.
”PTBA has strongly emphasised the principle of One Government, One Tax, and we appreciate the cooperation shown by national workers in understanding and acknowledging this concern. Bringing all groups under one system will create greater clarity, stability and a better environment for businesses and the people,” he added.
PTBA appealed to all Naga political groups, leaders and national workers to rise above differences and come together under a common platform, keeping the larger interests of the Naga people as the priority.
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The Association said differing political positions and approaches should not prevent stakeholders from sitting together, listening to one another and finding a mutually acceptable and peaceful solution. Whether through implementation of agreements already arrived at or another acceptable political settlement, PTBA said the priority should be achieving lasting peace, dignity, stability and development.
The Association said the half-day observance was intended as a period of remembrance, reflection and a renewed call for unity and reconciliation, while recognising that peace and political stability are fundamental to the social and economic progress of the people.
PTBA General Secretary, Truvi Rhi said remembering the past should inspire the present generation to work towards a united and peaceful future.
He expressed concern that prolonged differences and uncertainty could come at the cost of another generation, particularly the youth who aspire to build businesses, secure employment and create opportunities within the State.
According to Rhi, the younger generation needs an environment free from multiple taxes, contributions and donations, while encouraging greater investment, corporate presence, employment generation and entrepreneurship.
“The greatest tribute we can give to those who sacrificed for our people is to build a future where the next generation can live in peace, work with dignity and realise their potential,” he said.
Rhi called for an environment where young people could remain in Nagaland, contribute to its development and build their future in the State.
“Unity does not require us to have no differences; it requires the wisdom and courage to work together despite those differences,” he stated.
From a Christian perspective, Rhi also called upon Nagas to reflect on the values they profess as followers of Christ, saying that forgiveness, humility, reconciliation, love, justice and concern for others should be reflected not only in words but also in leadership, relationships and actions.
PTBA Media Secretary, Huveta Tbuluo said Nagas should not forget the sacrifices, struggles and hardships endured by their forefathers.
He said that regardless of present-day differences in opinion or political positions, Naga history remains a shared inheritance and should serve as an opportunity to reflect on the journey of the people and their responsibility towards future generations.
Tbuluo urged people to observe August 14 in a spirit of respect, remembrance and reflection.
