AZSU pitches for single administration of Zeliangrong people
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 21 2021: All Zeliangrong Students' Union (AZSU), On behalf of the Zeliangrong people, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nagaland Governor RN Ravi for acknowledging and highlighting the contribution of Rani Gaidinliu in the freedom struggle of India during their 75th Independence speeches on August 15 in New Delhi and Kohima respectively.

A joint release by AZSU, president Henry Chawang and general secretary Francis Newmai said many awards and honours have been given to the freedom fighter by the central government.

"However, like Mahatma Gandhi, Rani Gaidinliu did not seek personal comfort and glory.

Her soul would not rest in peace till the Zeliangrong people get their due rightful place in this geo-political system of India.

The best way to honour this great patriot would be to fulfil her cherished dream of bringing the Zeliangrong people under One Administrative Unit," said the release.

While appreciating the Prime Minister for mentioning the name of Rani Gaidinliu in his independence day speech, the AZSU requested PM Modi to revisit the old assurances given to the Zeliangrong people by the Government of India and announce a Special Political Package for the people of Rani Gaidinliu who have long been deprived of the fruits of development since they have been made mere peripheral appendages in the three states of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland by cruel historical circumstances.

"Haipou Jadonang and Rani Gaidinliu fought relentlessly against the British colonial power during the freedom struggle and had to pay a heavy price.

Haipou Jadonang was executed and Rani Gaidinliu sentenced to life imprisonment.

Despite all these sacrifices, independent India is yet to do justice to the Zeliangrong people for whom Rani Gaidinliu struggled throughout her life to bring her people under one administrative unit," said AZSU.

It also stated that the Zeliangrong people have submitted many memoranda from time to time to fulfil the cherished dream of 'Ranima' which is to live under one administration unit covering all the Zeliangrong inhabited areas of Assam; Manipur and Nagaland.

The students' body also appealed to the governor of Nagaland to apprise the central government in the right perspective to fulfil the aspiration of the Zeliangrong people as he is also the Interlocutor to Naga Peace Talks.

Comment