On August 14th, Nagaland’s hills and other Naga-inhabited regions transform into a sea of blue flags each year. People come together, sing songs of freedom, and commemorate a period of history that is hardly known by those outside of Nagaland. This is Naga Independence Day, a day the Nagas declared their independence, one whole day before India did.
The Untold Story Of Naga Independence Day
Back in 1947, when the British were preparing to leave India, the Naga National Council (NNC) was the main body representing the Naga people’s interests. The NNC was founded in 1946 with the belief that the Nagas should determine their own political destiny because they are a unique people with their own history, culture, and way of life.
Early in 1947, the NNC wrote to the British government requesting that they give the Nagas the right to self-determination. On July 19, 1947, a delegation from the NNC even met Mahatma Gandhi in Delhi. Gandhi told them that the Nagas were free to be independent if they wished, but they would have to protect their own freedom.
Taking this to heart, the NNC made a bold move. On 14 August 1947 – one day before India’s independence – they declared the Naga region independent. From the Kohima Head Post Office, telegrams were sent to the King of England, the Government of India, and the United Nations. The message was clear: the Nagas considered themselves free.
Interestingly, the Nagas were not the only people who made declarations during this period. On August 14, Hyderabad declared its independence but later joined India. Pakistan also gained independence on August 14. Jammu & Kashmir first tried to hold onto its independence before joining India after Pakistan invaded. The Nagas, however, continued to stand by their decision.
Also Read: India Sees 135% Rise In Solo Women Travellers Since 2023, Says Report
A Tale Of Identity And Resilience
When India gained its independence, it considered Nagaland to be a part of its territory. However, the Nagas disagreed. In a plebiscite held on May 16, 1951, the NNC reaffirmed their stance, and 99.9% of Naga voters favoured independence. According to the Nagaland Tribune, in 1958, the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) was introduced, giving the military extensive authority over the Naga regions.
There have been peace talks over the years, but the most significant of these was the Framework Agreement of 2015. In this agreement, the Indian government recognised the Nagas’ “unique history” and pledged to work towards a solution based on shared sovereignty.
On Naga Independence Day, the Naga people celebrate, remember, and strive for perseverance. The day is celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural events, community feasts, and memorial services in towns and villages.
August 14 reminds them that, even before India got its freedom from British rule, they had proclaimed themselves free. On this day, they honour the elders’ sacrifices, the suffering caused by war, and hope for a peaceful future based on respect and understanding.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/Anusree GS
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.