Kohima, Nov 11 (NationPress) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, along with Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, honored the valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Second World War, referring to the Kohima War Cemetery as a sanctified ground of bravery, sacrifice, and inspiration.

Bhaarat Dave, Deputy Head of Mission from the British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, also paid his respects at the Kohima War Cemetery.

During the second Remembrance Day of World War II, organized by the Nagaland government at the Kohima War Cemetery, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla remarked that the event serves as an inspiration for all.

He noted that the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Kohima continue to motivate future generations.

Birla stated that the Second World War was not merely a significant conflict but a representation of the valor and resolve of those who defended their homeland.

Om Birla expressed gratitude towards Nagaland Chief Minister Rio, whose late father participated in World War II, recognizing the historical ties and contributions of the Naga people to the war.

He also praised the dedication of Nagaland’s leadership and security forces for their commitment to maintaining morale and dedication in the area. Birla emphasized that India has always been a land of warriors and bravery, and the legacy of courage displayed by its soldiers will always remain a source of pride and inspiration.

Chief Minister Rio highlighted that the 2024 ceremony marked the inaugural official observance of Remembrance Day by the state government, conducted in association with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).

He declared that this commemorative event will now be held annually to honor the collective legacy of courage and sacrifice. Rio referred to the Kohima War Cemetery as a living monument to extraordinary valor, noting that 1,420 Allied soldiers are interred and 917 cremated nearby, totaling 2,331 who perished during the Battle of Kohima - one of the most intense confrontations of World War II.

He remarked that the stand taken by Allied, Indian, and Naga forces not only halted the eastward progression but also altered the trajectory of history.

Rio also reflected on his late father’s involvement in World War II as a scout on the Eastern Front during the Japanese invasion of Burma, highlighting the profound historical connection of the Naga people to those events.

He recounted tales of bravery, including soldiers who inscribed messages on ration tins during the siege, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of Kohima. He acknowledged the contributions of the Naga people who supported the troops, deeming their bravery one of the proudest chapters in Nagaland’s history.

Quoting the Kohima Epitaph, Rio stated that the peace we enjoy today was attained at the utmost cost, and urged everyone to uphold peace, compassion, unity, and mutual respect.

He remarked that Remembrance Day holds special significance for Nagaland, where the bonds of sacrifice forged in 1944 continue to resonate through generations and borders.

He emphasized that Nagaland’s narrative, once molded by conflict, must now advocate for peace, unity, and brotherhood, with Kohima serving as a beacon of hope and humanity.

British Deputy High Commissioner Bhaarat Dave honored the British, Indian, and Allied soldiers who fell during the Second World War. He extended thanks to Chief Minister Rio, Advisor Abu Metha, and the Nagaland government for establishing the annual event, calling it a fitting tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the fallen.

Recalling the Battle of Kohima as a pivotal moment in the war, he remarked that the courage and perseverance exhibited by the troops safeguarded the freedoms we cherish today.

The British envoy reaffirmed the UK’s dedication to peace, friendship, and the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and India, expressing gratitude to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the Government of Nagaland for their maintenance of the cemetery.