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Senapati (Manipur): In a striking show of solidarity and reverence, thousands of Nagas from Senapati and adjoining districts gathered on Wednesday to give a rousing reception to Thuingaleng Muivah, the 91-year-old general secretary of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah faction) — the man seen as the face of the Naga resistance movement for over six decades. Massive turnout reflects Muivah’s enduring influence The event, organised at the Senapati stadium, drew people dressed in colourful traditional attire and elaborate Naga headgear. Streets leading to the venue were adorned with Naga cultural motifs, festoons, and posters of Muivah. Despite his frail health, Muivah, moving with the help of aides, addressed the crowd briefly, calling for “unity among Nagas” and an “honourable Indo-Naga political solution based on the 2015 Framework Agreement.” His words resonated deeply among the thousands present, many of whom regard him as the symbol of Naga identity and struggle. “We must rebuild the Naga nation through love, understanding, and forgiveness,” Muivah urged, drawing thunderous applause from the audience. Political backdrop and significance Muivah’s appearance and message come at a time when the Naga peace talks with the Centre have been stalled for years. The prolonged negotiations — spanning over two decades — have left many within the Naga community frustrated. The NSCN (IM) continues to insist on its core demands of Greater Nagaland (Nagalim), a separate flag, and a distinct constitution, all of which the Centre has rejected. The idea of Greater Nagaland involves integrating Naga-inhabited areas across Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh — a demand that remains a key obstacle to any final agreement. The visit is therefore being seen as a symbolic reaffirmation of Muivah’s leadership at a critical juncture, especially amid internal divisions and the emergence of several splinter groups within and outside the NSCN framework. UNC organises grand reception The reception, organised by the United Naga Council (UNC), drew Naga delegations from across Manipur and Nagaland. The day was declared as Genna, a traditional day of reverence and celebration among the Nagas, during which community members refrain from routine work to mark important occasions. The UNC also directed all educational institutions and shops in Naga-dominated areas to remain closed. Choirs representing various tribes — including Mao, Maram, and Poumai — performed cultural songs to welcome Muivah. Leaders from 21 Naga tribes also addressed the massive gathering, which many described as the largest in Senapati in years. “A once-in-a-lifetime experience” For many young Nagas, the event was their first chance to see Muivah in person. “We have come here to pay honour and respect to our avakharar (father figure) and get inspiration from him,” said Koshyel Khaling, a Naga youth from Chandel district. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for youngsters like us.” Soyophy Zingkhai Awuh, a visitor from Imphal, shared a similar sentiment. “It’s a joyous moment to finally see in flesh and blood the man we have only read about. It will remain a cherished memory,” she said. “Senapati has not seen such a crowd in years” The enormous turnout was seen by supporters as proof that Muivah continues to command immense respect among the Nagas. A.C. Thotso, working committee secretary of the UNC, said, “Senapati has not seen such a large gathering in a long time. This visit will inspire the community, especially the youth, to remain committed to the Naga cause.” After Muivah’s brief remarks, his full speech was read out by his deputy V.S. Atem, who reiterated the NSCN (IM)’s long-standing demands. “The only honourable negotiated political agreement shall be according to the letter and spirit of the Amsterdam Joint Communique and the Framework Agreement, and must recognise Nagalim’s unique history, sovereignty, territory, national flag, and constitution,” Atem read. Mixed sentiments over NSCN (IM)’s relevance While the turnout reflected Muivah’s enduring influence, sections within the Naga community feel that the NSCN (IM)’s authority has waned over time, citing accusations of extortion against its cadres and growing disillusionment with the stalled peace process. Nevertheless, the emotional response to Muivah’s visit shows that for many Nagas, the veteran leader remains a unifying figure and a living link to their decades-long political struggle. As Muivah waved to the cheering crowd from the roof of his vehicle, the scene symbolised not only nostalgia for the past but also the enduring hope for an honourable and peaceful Naga solution.
