Ungma Village, May 2, 2026 (Nokinketer News): Delivering a powerful reminiscence speech as the honored guest at the 25th anniversary celebration of the ‘Rüna Khrietho – Maong Aksü’ program between Tuophema and Ungma villages, former Chief Minister and Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. S.C. Jamir urged the Naga people to move beyond past divisions and work toward a united, prosperous Nagaland.

The event, held at Ungma Village under Mokokchung district, marked the silver jubilee of a historic friendship between an Ao village (Ungma) and an Angami village (Tuophema). Reflecting on the origins of the bond, Jamir recalled that 25 years ago, when he served as Chief Minister and Neiphiu Rio as his deputy, the two leaders envisioned the pact as a model for tribal unity. “The Naga family should be a very united, happy family, and that was the very objective of this friendship between Tuophema and Ungma,” he said.

However, Dr. Jamir lamented that the spirit of unity has since eroded. He criticized the rise of factionalism, noting that the original Naga movement has splintered into over 30 factions. “Underground people now are becoming dwarves. They want to be satisfied with a small nest… Everyone would like to be prime minister,” he remarked, adding that “too many cooks have spoiled the curry” of Naga society.

The veteran leader also warned against materialism, moral decline, and divisive forces. “We have become purchasable commodities,” he stated, contrasting today’s realities with the honesty and bravery attributed to Nagas by British-era records.

Calling for a new vision, Dr. Jamir urged leaders to stop blaming others and start rebuilding. He pointed to the “Framework Agreement” and “Agreed Position” as the only viable paths forward under the Indian Constitution. “India said very clearly—there is only one flag, one Constitution, one Prime Minister. But in Nagaland, we want too many prime ministers,” he said.

He challenged the audience to dream anew: “Don’t be overburdened by old dreams… Let us evolve a happy, united, harmonious, progressive, prosperous Nagaland.”

Jamir called on the two villages to lead a rescue effort for a “shipwrecked” Naga society. “If God is your Father, your teacher, and your guide, whom are you afraid of? Naga people should not be afraid of anything,” he said, expressing hope that the silver jubilee would mark a new horizon for the Naga people.

*****