Imphal: The Chandel Naga People’s Organisation (CNPO) unveiled a monolith on Friday at Liwa Sarei village in Manipur’s Chandel district, depicting the heritage and unity of the 11 Naga tribes of the district and affirming Chandel as the ancestral land of the Nagas.
The monolith, inaugurated by SS. Olish Lamkang, MLA of the Chandel (ST) Assembly Constituency, is engraved with the Naga tribes of Chandel, namely Aimol, Anāl, Chothe, Khoibu, Kom, Lamkang, Maring, Monsang, Moyon, Tarao, and Tangkhul.
It bears the message: “This monolith is erected as an embodiment and testament of identity, integrity, unity, solidarity, peace, and the shared vision of the Naga family for peaceful co-existence & prosperity, embracing the unique history and ancestral land.”
The CNPO stated that the monolith symbolizes the resilience and resistance of the Nagas. It said, “Throughout history, the Naga people have faced challenges to their way of life, including external and internal influences and conflicts. However, the enduring presence of ancient monoliths stands as a testament to their determination to preserve their cultural heritage in the face of adversity.”
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, legislator SS. Olish urged all Naga tribes in the district to embrace brotherly love and work collectively for Chandel’s development. She emphasized the importance of unity under the leadership of their respective tribal heads to safeguard their land and identity.
During the event, Ng. Lorho, President of the United Naga Council (UNC), released a souvenir and memento, while Rev. Shonnai Saka, President of Chandel Naga Christian Forum (CNCF), blessed and dedicated the monolith.
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St. Victor Nunghlung, former MLA and president of CNPO, called for unity amongst all the Naga tribes of Chandel to safeguard their ancestral land.
