Nagas are at the threshold of new political system: Tribal body Hoho

Kohima, Aug 29 (PTI) The Naga people are standing at the threshold of a major change in the political system and the need of the hour is their unity, the apex body of the Naga tribals said today.

"For decades we have struggled and hoped for a change and in the course many of us lost hope. But now when we have been presented with a solution (Naga Peace Accord signed between the Centre and NSCN-IM) many are left to wonder if we the Nagas are prepared to take this change when there is no unity among us and when tribalism and individualism is the norm of the day," Naga Hoho President P Chuba Ozukum said.

Chuba made the statement while addressing the 84th Martyr Day of Haipao Jadonang jointly organized by Zeliangrong Baudi (organization) and All Zeliangrong Students' Union of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland at Jalukie in Peren district of Nagaland.

"If we rise above all these, there can be a ray of hope in our future. The need of the hour is the unity among Naga underground factions, tribes, churches, villages and in fact this is where the process should begin," Chuba said.

Referring to the movement initiated by Jadonang against payment of tax to the British government in 1927, Chuba said "Naga integration under one political roof is not a recent introduction, but has been there since the British colonial regime."

The Hoho President described Jadonang, who was hanged to dead by the British in 1931, as a man who was dedicated towards a cause willing to sacrifice even if it meant death.

"Nagaland in the present context needs such kind of leaders - a leader willing to sacrifice all selfish motives and ready to give all for the Naga cause," he said.