Ukhrul, October 4, 2025: The Tangkhul Naga heartland is abuzz with anticipation as Thuingaleng Muivah (91), Chief Political Negotiator and Ato Kilonser (General Secretary) of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim/Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (NSCN/GPRN), prepares to visit his birthplace, Somdal village, Manipur, after more than five decades.
According to sources, an estimated ₹85 lakh has been earmarked for various arrangements in Ukhrul and Somdal during the week-long visit scheduled from October 22 to 28, 2025. The budget breakdown shows extensive logistical preparations:
• Stage & Hall arrangements: ₹41 lakh, including flags, sound system, chairs, decorations, mineral water, and refreshments.
• VVIP Food & Lodging: ₹4 lakh
• Security Arrangements: ₹3 lakh
• Duty Expenditures (CSOs): ₹5 lakh
• Medical Department: ₹1 lakh
• Transportation for VVIPs: ₹15 lakh
• Media: ₹1 lakh
• Official Duty Expenditure (Organising Committee & Sub-Committee): ₹5 lakh
Additionally, ₹10 lakh has been allocated for mess management of GPRN officials and security personnel in Somdal.
Born on March 23, 1934, to Shangkathan and Luimala Muivah, Th. Muivah left Somdal in 1964 to join the Naga freedom movement. Before his departure, he reportedly told his family, “Keep praying for me. I sacrifice my life for my people. Do not be anxious for me. I may not be able to come back.” Since then, he has returned only once - briefly in 1973 during the dedication of the Somdal Church - but refrained from attending the gathering, staying instead in the nearby forest with comrades. His younger brother, Asui Muivah, recalled that the leader missed the funerals of both his parents and several siblings due to his long underground life.
In Somdal, the atmosphere is festive as villagers prepare a grand welcome featuring cultural performances, prayers, and the unveiling of a newly erected statue of Th. Muivah and his wife, Paka-hao. Village headman RVS Phungnang said, “The grand celebration is to show our gratitude to him for the sacrifices he has made for the Naga people.” Community members shared similar sentiments. Maringthei Muivah, a contemporary, praised his leadership and dedication, while Kharmi Shimrang, President of the Somdal Students’ Organisation, said, “We are eagerly waiting for his return. We have faith in him and wish him good health.”
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As per the approved itinerary, Muivah will depart Dimapur Airport at 9:30 a.m. on October 22 and arrive at Ukhrul headquarters by 10:00 a.m., where a public meeting is scheduled at noon. By 3:30 p.m., he will leave for Somdal and reach by 4:00 p.m. On October 29, he will depart Somdal at 9:30 a.m. for Senapati, attend a public meeting at 11:30 a.m., and return to Dimapur by afternoon.
For the people of Somdal, the visit is more than a political event - it marks the emotional homecoming of a son of the soil. The Somdal Church continues to hold special prayers for his health, while villagers across generations are uniting in celebration, preparing to welcome him with deep pride and reverence.
