Th Muivah Returns Home After Five Decades
In a historic and emotional moment for the Naga community, Thuingaleng Muivah, the 91-year-old leader of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), returned to his native village Somdal in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on October 22, 2025 — marking his first visit in over five decades.
Muivah, the supremo of NSCN (IM) and a key figure in the Naga peace talks with the Indian government, landed by helicopter at Bakshi ground in Ukhrul’s district headquarters. Thousands of people — including Naga women in traditional attire and men wearing ceremonial headgear and holding spears — gathered to welcome their revered leader.
“This is an emotional moment for all Nagas and me. We grew up listening to his story. He is a legend,” said A. Horam, a local resident who joined the large crowd that thronged the venue.
According to officials, Muivah is expected to stay in Somdal for a week before travelling to Dimapur via Senapati district on October 29. A dedicated helipad was built in Somdal to facilitate his arrival, underscoring the significance of the visit.
Symbolic Visit Amid Manipur’s Turmoil
Muivah’s visit comes at a sensitive time for Manipur, which has been reeling under ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023. The unrest has claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands.
Although the Tangkhul Naga community, to which Muivah belongs, has largely remained outside the ongoing conflict, his presence in the state carries deep symbolic meaning. It is seen by many as a message of unity and resilience for Nagas across Manipur and Nagaland.
Political analysts suggest that his return could also have broader implications for the Naga peace process, which has been in limbo despite decades of negotiations with New Delhi. Muivah has long been the principal negotiator for the NSCN (IM) since it entered into a ceasefire agreement in 1997.
His homecoming, therefore, comes not only as a personal journey but also as a political statement, reminding both Nagas and the Indian government that the dream of “Greater Nagalim” — though controversial — continues to influence Naga identity and politics.
Ukhrul Prepares For A Historic Welcome
Ahead of Muivah’s arrival, Ukhrul district underwent a major transformation. Locals launched a cleanliness drive, decorated roads, and displayed banners, hoardings, and wall paintings featuring prominent Naga leaders.
The Somdal village council and local organizations coordinated security and logistics for the event, with assistance from Manipur police and district administration.
Several senior NSCN (IM) leaders and members of the Tangkhul civil society organizations also arrived in Ukhrul to accompany Muivah. According to sources, a cultural reception was held at Somdal to honor him, featuring traditional Tangkhul songs and dance performances.
“This visit is not just about one man returning home,” said a local elder. “It is about the revival of a people’s spirit and their connection to the land.”
A Key Figure In The Naga Struggle
Born in Somdal in 1934, Th Muivah has been at the forefront of the Naga nationalist movement for decades. Alongside the late Isak Chishi Swu, he co-founded the NSCN (IM) in 1980 after a split in the original Naga National Council (NNC).
For over 40 years, Muivah has played a central role in shaping the political aspirations of Nagas, advocating for self-determination and autonomy under the banner of “Nagalim for Christ.” His long engagement with the Indian government led to the 1997 ceasefire agreement, followed by numerous rounds of talks that continue to this day.
In 2015, the signing of the Framework Agreement between NSCN (IM) and the Government of India was seen as a breakthrough. However, differences over the interpretation of key clauses — including the demand for a separate Naga flag and constitution — have stalled further progress.
Muivah’s visit to his birthplace, therefore, holds symbolic significance at a time when both sides are under pressure to revive stalled negotiations and bring the peace process to a meaningful conclusion.
Hope For Renewed Dialogue
Observers believe that Muivah’s emotional return may also be a rallying moment for Nagas across India’s northeast. The NSCN (IM) has maintained that the Naga peace process must ensure dignity, recognition, and political rights for all Nagas, while respecting the integrity of neighboring states.
His visit could inspire renewed efforts toward reconciliation — both within Naga factions and between the Naga leadership and New Delhi.
For the people of Somdal, however, the homecoming of their most famous son is deeply personal. “After five decades, he has come home,” said a resident. “This day will be remembered in our history.”