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09/17/2007: "Reflection on Nagas as Indigenous Peoples Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights"

Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights



Reflection on Nagas as Indigenous Peoples


When the United Nations declared the year 1993, as the International Year of the World’s Indigenous People, and circulated a Preambular and Operative Draft Declaration, defining who are the Indigenous People of the world, NPMHR initiated a series of debates and discussions amongst the Nagas over the contents of the draft from January 1993 till March 1993 with people participating from different walks of life. Following this brain-storming sessions, a position paper on Nagas as Indigenous People with a draft entitled; “Nagas in the International Year of the World’s Indigenous People – A Prerogative” was finalized and submitted to the United Nations through the Asian Indigenous Peoples Pact in May 19, 1993 at Chiang Mai in Thailand, with a decision that Nagas too will celebrate the year in proud partnership with the other Indigenous Peoples of the world.

In this regard, NPMHR and NSF formed itself into an Action Committee, with various other committees and toured the length and breadth of Naga areas, conducting awareness programs and holding seminars at various Educational Institutions in Nagaland at that time. This year-long partnering by the Nagas with other Indigenous peoples of the world culminated with the historic celebration of the NAGA WEEK which was held from December 1 – 5, 1993, at the Kohima Local Ground. Ever since, Nagas have been actively participating in the deliberations of the United Nations both in the Working Group and Permanent Forums on Indigenous peoples and issues, which are held every year at Geneva and New York respectively.

In this regard, the submission of NPMHR clearly states that; “Our case is different and distinct in itself while the problems of most of the other indigenous peoples relate to recognition of their rights within nation states and they seek redressal of their problems with Governments concerned, our case is an indigenous people under forced occupation and seeking recognition of their right of place as a sovereign state”.

For further references, kindly read the original draft submission, which is attached herewith.


Dr. Neivetso Venuh
Secretary General,
Dated Kohima, the 17th September 2007.


Enclosed: Draft declaration of 1993.