Question

Why did the Naga people want to be separated from Independent India?

Answer 1

The Naga people wanted to be separated from Independent India primarily due to their distinct identity and the desire for self-rule. During the British colonial period, the Naga tribes had enjoyed a certain level of autonomy, which they wanted to retain after India's independence. The Naga National Council (NNC), led by A.Z. Phizo, declared the right to self-determination for the Naga people. In 1951, they organized a referendum in which 99% of the Naga people reportedly supported independence from India. However, the Indian government rejected the results of the referendum, leading to the breakdown of talks between the NNC and the Indian government. This rejection and the failure of peaceful negotiations led the NNC to adopt a more radical stance, culminating in an armed struggle for independence. The Naga people felt that their culture, religion, and way of life were under threat and demanded the creation of an independent Naga state.