DIMAPUR, Jul 2 : Flags of the NSCN(I-M) flew at half mast at Camp Hebron while a smart turnout of Naga Army of the NSCN(I-M) stood in attention to present their greatest honour and last respects to their departed leader late Isak Chishi Swu, chairman/Yaruiwo NSCN(I-M) as the coffin containing the body was carried from the hearse.
The procession was accompanied by the congregational hymn ‘When We All Get To Heaven’. A contingent of the Naga Army fired several rounds to present the Gun Salute accompanied by blasting of bombs.
Delivering a moving testimony of his around five decade-old association with late Isak, Th.Muivah was hardly able to control his emotions as he mentioned many notable contributions made by his late friend and colleague during their treacherous journey.
“There was no difference between us,” he said and expressed great pride for leaders like Isak. Muivah said the footprint left behind by Isak to the correct path will inevitably lead to solution.
NSCN (I-M) vice-chairman, “gen.” (retd) Kholi praised Late Isak for his leadership qualities.
Member, Collective Leadership, “Gen” (retd) V.S. Atem, said that late Isak’s love for the Naga nation was above everything and that his ideals, dreams and spirit would continue to guide them.
Atem also became emotional as he addressed the late leader in making a pledge not to give up till the task he (Isak) left behind was accomplished.
Convenor, NSCN(I-M) Steering Committee, Qhevihe Chishi Swu, also paid rich tribute to the Yaruiwo. He said late Isak’s spirituality impacted those around and even RN Ravi (Interlocutor) used to suggest prayer before start of negotiations.
NSCN (I-M) kilo kilonser, Rh.Raising, described late Isak as a ‘super star’ who came and was now “ gone to be with Christ.”
Raising informed that NSCN, under late Isak’s leadership, extended missions covering five continents.
Reading out a condolence message, Longvibu, Naga Army “Lt. Gen” Phungthing Shimrang, described late Isak as a true statesman and a fatherly figure for the people . Phungthing said Isak was determined and courageous and in his death, Nagaland has lost a great son and a great leader.
NSWON chairperson, “capt. (retd)” Singyaola Zimik and NFFWWF chairperson, Mingthingla, also conveyed their condolences.
Delivering his condolence message, chairman National Democratic Front of Bodo-land (R) (NDFB), DR Nabla, said the NDFB drew inspiration for its struggle from late Isak who, he said, was a fatherly figure of revolutionary movements in the entire region. “His legacy will be remembered by all freedom loving people,” Nabla said.
Dhiren Bora, president NDFB (progressive) also paid tribute to the Late Isak and said he was an iconic symbol for all oppressed nationalities. National Democratic Front of Boroland (NDFB- Progressive) vice president D.R. Nabla alias Ranjan Daimary also spoke on the occasion. Bodo Women’s Justice Forum president, Anjali Daimary, recounted her meeting with the Yaruiwo and stated that “he will be remembered by all people fighting for their rights.”
Naga Students’ Organisation (Myanmar) president, D. Konyak, said Isak was “a central figure and a messenger of Gospel to the Eastern Nagas.”
Condolence messages were also read from Maharaja of Manipur, Meitei National Front, and former Indo-Naga interlocutor Swaraj Kaushal .
Principal emeritus, Patkai Christian College, Rev. Dr. Tuisem Shishak, recalled his student days and said late Isak was “spiritually sensitive” even as a young man in college.
Eustar (Khulu),wife of late Isak spoke on behalf of the bereaved family and recounted events from their 40 years together . Eustar frequently broke down during her speech and was consoled by her daughter who was by her side. She urged upon the gathering to uphold the values that her late husband enshrined. She also expressed optimism that present leadership was capable of leading the Nagas. A eulogy was also delivered by gen. secy. CNC, Rev. Seksim Kasar.
BJP’s national secretary-Minority in-charge and Nagaland in-charge, Farooq Khan also attended the programme.
Special numbers were presented by late Isak’s daughter, GHQ Choir, family members, Nagaland Chamber Choir, children of Gilgal.
Earlier, the programme started with invocation by pastor CHQ, Rev. Joseph Ruivah. NSCN (I-M) kilonsers Samson Jajo and David Mero conducted the service while pastor Central, Rev D Heutui Zeme was the funeral minister.
After the ‘act of funeral rites’ the congregation observed a minute silence in respect of the departed soul. Closing prayer was delivered by pastor, CFMC, Rev. Vitovi Yeptho.
Later, some seventy motorcycles from the Nagaland Motorcycle Club Dimapur and Kohima, United Riders Chumukedima, CREW Wokha, and some solo riders escorted the mortal remains of late Isak till Kohima.
Courtesy- Nagaland Post
