PNU commemorates Operation Bluebird
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, July 09 2024: Poumai Naga Union (PNU) along with its frontal organisations, Poumai Naga Women's Union (PNNM) and Poumai Naga Students' Union (PNTM), on Tuesday observed the 37th Commemoration of Onae Reh Dah, the Infamous Operation Bluebird, a tragic event that occurred on July 9, 1987 .

The commemoration began with flying the ceremony flag at half-mast at the PNU, PNTM, and PNNM offices in the presence of leaders and representatives from various capacities, as the three Poumai frontal organisations' offices remained closed to show solidarity.

In the evening, a candlelight service was held at Khabung Karong with participation of large number of people including leaders, citizens, students, youth, children, and elderlies from all walks of life.

Leaders from various capacities, survivors, villagers, intellectuals, and well-wishers also attended the solemn event.

PNU president RB Pani termed the day as a "victory day for the Nagas" in his keynote address.

However, the event was marked by tears and solemnity as the participants remembered the atrocities committed during the infamous Operation Bluebird.

He stated that the day was observed to respect and show solidarity to all the victims and to share the grief and pains of the victims from different villages.

Taphou Onaeme chairman TS Khaie shared his personal experience of losing his mother during the operation and recounted the inhumane torture and untold miseries faced by the innocent villagers, including the burning down of educational institutions and religious places.

The operation resulted in 27 deaths, 3 rapes, 5 cases of sexual molestation, 2 forced public births, 340 instances of torture, 96 arrests and detentions, 125 houses burnt, 175 houses, 10 churches, and 6 schools dismantled.

Many victims' stories remain unrecorded.

The candlelight service serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, justice, and peace.

PNU expressed appreciation for the support and solidarity shown by all who attended the event.

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