Imphal: The All Naga Students’ Association Manipur (ANSAM) has asked its constituent and subordinate units to observe August 14 as the 80th Naga Independence Day by hoisting the Naga national flag at their respective “Okings”.
In a directive, ANSAM also appealed to the Naga community, particularly youths and students, to stay away from India’s Independence Day celebrations on August 15.
The decision followed resolutions adopted at ANSAM’s 3rd Legislative Assembly for the 2024–26 term, held on August 10 at Chandel Christian village in Manipur’s Chandel district. The student body also called on educational institutions as well as government and private offices in Naga-inhabited areas to declare a holiday on August 14.
ANSAM said the decision was linked to what it described as the alleged non-implementation of the August 3, 2015 Framework Agreement between the Government of India and the NSCN. The association alleged that the agreement has not been implemented in its “true letter and spirit” and referred to the Naga flag and constitution as rights recognised under the pact.
The association also raised concerns over the continued enforcement of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), policies it said were dividing the Naga people, and what it described as the suppression of tribal rights.
During the legislative assembly, ANSAM leaders also opposed the Manipur government’s 6th Amendment Act and 7th Amendment Bill relating to Autonomous District Councils. The association said it would resist any legislative measures that, in its view, undermine the provisions and spirit of Article 371C of the Constitution.
On education and government recruitment, ANSAM called for strict implementation of the Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Amendment Act, 2012, and compliance with Scheduled Tribe reservation quotas in Group C and D appointments. It also sought special recruitment drives to clear backlog vacancies and immediate teacher appointments to address shortages in Naga-inhabited districts.
ANSAM reaffirmed its solidarity with the United Naga Council (UNC) and other apex organisations. ANSAM president Th. Angteshang Maring and ALT GHQ President Wng. Lawrence called for unity and continued vigilance amid the prevailing socio-political situation in Manipur.