78th Naga Martyrs Day of 'No Tax Campaign' observed at Mao
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, August 27 2025: The 78th Naga Martyrs' Day was observed at Mao today by the Mao Council under the aegis of the United Naga Council, commemorating the historic day of 1948 when the Nagas in Manipur refused to pay the Annual Hill House Tax to the Government of Manipur under the support of the Naga National League.

The day is remembered for th* supreme sacrifices made by Mao volunteers, leaders, and students, when security forces opened fire on peaceful demonstrators.

Three people were killed on the spot while many others, including men and women, sustained serious injuries from bullets, rifles butts, lathis, and assaults by the Assam Rifles and Manipur police.

78th Naga Martyrs Day of 'No Tax Campaign' observed at Mao

In his keynote address, Mao Council president, N Athikho Joseph recalled the courage and determination of the Mao people who, on August 27, 1948, stood firm in their demand for dignity and freedom.

He stated that the Nagas of Manipur had always lived as an independent people before the arrival of the British and were never governed by any authority of that time.

Even after the British arrived, they were only administered by the political department of the British Crown.

He also highlighted the role of the Naga National league, organize in February 1946, which worked to consolidate the Nagas of Manipur across colonial boundaries.

Joseph stressed that the sacrifices of the martyrs continue to inspire the Naga people to preserve their culture, traditions, and customary laws while striving for unity and justice.

Vice President of the United Naga Council, N Gonmei Poujan, in his solidarity message, reminded that the gathering was not merely to remember, but to reaffirm the ideals for which the martyrs had sacrificed their lives.

He urged everyone to stand united in preserving Naga culture, traditions and customary laws, while continuing the struggle for peace, justice and dignity.

Wreaths were laid by Naga leaders at Island Park, Mao Gate before the official program at Mao Town Hall, Mao Gate, followed by a silent prayer in remembrance of the Martyrs.

Leaders and representatives several organizations, including the United Naga Council, Naga Women's Union, All Naga Students Association, Manipur, Naga People's Movement for Human Rights, Naga People's Organization, Senapati District Students Association, Senapati District Women's Association, Mao Council, Mao National Workers, Mao Students Union, Mao Naga Women's Welfare Association, CAO, Shepoumaramth Region, Kalinamei Village Authority, Punanamei Village Authority and Martyrs Families attended the program.