In a disheartening incident that took place in the early hours of Saturday, the Naga Club heritage building in Kohima, Nagaland, fell victim to an act of vandalism by unidentified miscreants. The NSCN-IM, expressing deep concern over the incident, has come forward to condemn the senseless destruction of this iconic structure.
The Naga Club holds immense historical and cultural significance, serving as a symbol of Naga identity and unity. It was in this very building that the Naga Club memorandum, a pivotal document that played a crucial role in shaping Naga history, was submitted to the Simon Commission in 1929. The edifice has long stood as a testament to the struggles, aspirations, and resilience of the Naga people.
The NSCN-IM, a prominent Naga nationalist group, strongly denounced the act of vandalizing the Naga Club heritage building. In their statement, they highlighted the importance of preserving such historical landmarks that hold deep sentimental value for the Naga community.
The destruction of this revered site not only undermines the cultural heritage of the Nagas but also strikes at the core of their collective identity. The Naga Club building has served as a constant reminder of the Naga people’s journey towards self-determination and the pursuit of their political rights.
While the motives behind the act of vandalism remain unknown, it is imperative for the authorities to swiftly investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. Preserving and safeguarding cultural landmarks is not just a responsibility of the government but also a collective duty that should be shared by society as a whole.
The NSCN-IM has appealed to all Naga organizations, civil society groups, and individuals to join hands in condemning this act and to work towards the restoration and preservation of the Naga Club heritage building. They emphasized the need for unity in the face of such destructive actions and called for efforts to rebuild the structure as a symbol of Naga pride and resilience.
Furthermore, the NSCN-IM has urged the Nagaland state government and concerned authorities to take immediate measures to protect and preserve other cultural and historical sites across the region. They stressed that the cultural heritage of the Naga people should be cherished and safeguarded for future generations.
The incident of vandalism against the Naga Club heritage building has evoked widespread outrage and sadness among the Naga community and beyond. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognizing and respecting the cultural heritage that binds a community together. The NSCN-IM’s condemnation echoes the sentiments of many who cherish the rich history and legacy of the Nagas and calls for collective action to preserve and protect their cultural landmarks.
