'Nagas have rights to exist as a Nation'
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik

Ukhrul, March 06 2025: Chief of Naga Army (Longvibu) of NSCN (IM) Anthony Ningkhan Shimray has asserted that Nagas have the sovereign right to exist as a Nation and establish a strong kingdom of God in Naga's land (Nagalim) .

He made the statement while speaking at the inaugural function of Luira Phanit (seed sowing) festival held at Khathing Memorial ground in Tashar village under the theme 'Globalizing our cultural identity' .

On the occasion, Longvibu Ningkhan inaugurated the three-day seed sowing festival by hoisting the flag of Tashar village.

The cultural festival commenced with a traditional chanting (Hokharai) and blowing of trumpets.

Addressing the gathering, he stated that Nagas will have a solution as they exist in the divine mercy of God and have adopted "Nagalim for Christ" in order to build a strong Naga Nation with Christ as the head of the kingdom.

Reflecting on the gradual loss of Nagas' cultural rights and identity, he said that their identity is under threat in the name of the Free Movement Regime, border fencing, AFSPA etc.

He also spoke about the destruction of their political rights through "system intrusion".

Celebration of traditional festivals should not be confined to merry-making.

It should be a time to rise together to safeguard and protect Nagas' cultural rights, stated Ningkhan.

He maintained that Nagas have to sow good seeds as sowing seeds of hatred, disobedience and distrust will only fragment society and cause division among people.

Nagas have to be united to defend their sovereign rights from external forces, asserted Longvibu Ningkhan.

Dwelling on the festival theme, Ningkhan stressed on the need to preserve their indigenous culture by exposing it to the rest of the world for good and educating their younger generation to uphold their beautiful culture.

Presidents of UNC, ANSAM, NWU, NPHMR and TNL also extended festival greetings.

During the inaugural function, the village cultural troupe presented a special performance.

Additionally, a myriad of Tangkhul traditional folk dance, folk song, trumpet, tug of war, musical pieces etc were also witnessed at the event.

The three day festival will conclude on March 8 at Tashar village.

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