The Nagas

Hill Peoples of Northeast India

Project Introduction The Naga Database

typescript 'Journey to Nagaland', by Mildred Archer. An account of six months spent in the Naga Hills in 1947

caption: NNC delegation to see Nehru in Delhi
caption: interview with Nehru
medium: diaries
person: MayangNehruLongri
date: 19.8.1947
production:
person: Archer/ Mildred
date: 9.7.1947-4.12.1947
text: The interview seems to have opened smoothly with Mayang explaining Naga disappointment at the sub-committee's attitude, their apparent 'betrayal' by the Governor and the Nagas' passionate wish for freedom of choice at the end of ten years. Nehru it seems was patient and friendly, but pointed out that since the agreement was with the Governor any alteration would require the latter's consent. Unfortunately at this point, Longri intervened and said with angry sharpness 'If the new clause is not accepted the Nagas will go their own way'. This was too much for Nehru, who banged the table and said, 'India cannot be split into a hundred bits. If you fight, we shall resist.' After that he said he was glad the Nagas had come to see him and the delegation left.