A historic moment took place in Manipur’s Ukhrul district today as Thuingaleng Muivah, the 91-year-old leader of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM), returned to his native village of Somdal after more than half a century.
Muivah, who left Somdal decades ago to join the Naga insurgency, had not visited his birthplace since. Upon arrival, he was initially supported to walk but was soon placed in a wheelchair to ensure his comfort and safety. His arrival by helicopter from Dimapur in Nagaland was greeted with cheers, trumpet fanfares, and traditional dances performed by students, local choirs, and community groups. Naga women dressed in traditional attire and men carrying spears and wearing ceremonial headgears lined the streets, offering a warm and emotional welcome to the revered leader.
The district authorities, along with student bodies and civil society organizations, coordinated the large-scale event to ensure smooth proceedings. Medical teams led by Dr Lucy Duidang were stationed at the venue, with ambulances and specialists on standby to attend to the elderly leader’s health. “We wish God’s blessings for him so that he remains a great leader for many years,” Dr Duidang said. 
The reception at Tangkhul Long Ground featured an elaborate program moderated by Qr Wungnaoshang A Shimray and Ql Ningreichon R Shimray. The event included hymns, invocations, and cultural performances by the Pans Kindergarten, Galilee Choir, Wungramso Team, and a choreography set to ‘Nganga Katamnao Long’. Senior church leaders and retired ministers offered blessings for the Ato Kilonser, while Lieutenant General (Retd) VS Atem delivered the keynote speech. The program concluded with a closing hymn and a benediction by Qr Enoch Ningshan.
Muivah is expected to stay in Somdal for a week before returning to Dimapur via Senapati district on October 29. A new helipad has been constructed in the village to facilitate his arrival. Organizers also noted that the Tangkhul Ngashan, practitioners of the traditional faith, will conduct a ceremonial ritual in the evening, followed by a bonfire service.
The homecoming is a landmark moment in Naga political history. Unlike his attempted visit in 2010, which was blocked by the Manipur government, this year’s return received widespread support from across communities. Kuki, Zomi, and Meitei organizations joined the Tangkhul Nagas in welcoming Muivah, reflecting a rare spirit of unity amid ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur. The state has witnessed violent clashes between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023, resulting in over 260 deaths and thousands displaced.
Local authorities, along with community leaders, carried out cleanliness drives and erected hoardings across Ukhrul town and Somdal village in preparation for the visit. Many residents expressed their excitement and pride. “It is an emotional moment for all of Nagas and for me. We grew up hearing his story. He is a legend,” said A Horam, a local resident.
Born in 1934, Th Muivah has been a key negotiator in peace talks between the NSCN-IM and the Indian government since the ceasefire of 1997. His return to his roots not only rekindles memories of the Naga struggle but also serves as a reminder of the continuing efforts for peace and reconciliation in the region.
