NINU, Feb 3: The 150th anniversary of the historic 1875 Anglo-Wancho War was commemorated at Ninu village in Longding district through a grand event named ‘Gantang’, dedicated to honouring the unsung heroes who bravely resisted the British forces.
Gracing the occasion as chief guest, Agriculture Minister Gabriel D Wangsu described it as a ‘historic day’ for the State. He expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to pay tribute to the warriors who sacrificed their lives to protect their land and people.
Wangsu shared a remarkable discovery from his research, recalling how he first came across a rare photograph of Wancho warriors captured during the war. This discovery later helped uncover a crucial piece of history, bringing well-deserved recognition to the community’s struggle and resilience.
“We must reflect on the hardships and sacrifices of our ancestors. Their resistance ensured that the British could not subjugate us. Today, their bravery defines our identity. It is our duty to honour them and keep their legacy alive,” he remarked.
He extended thanks to the State Govt, led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, for their pivotal role in recognizing the Wancho heroes and reviving their lost history.
In this connection, he also conveyed his gratitude to former Advisor to CM, Tai Tagak.
“Our government is committed to recognizing the sacrifices of our indigenous warriors. The work of the State Core Committee on Unsung Heroes, led by Dy CM Chowna Mein, is commendable in bringing to light the stories of our ancestors,” he stated.
He also acknowledged the efforts of researcher Nepha Wangsa, whose extensive research shed light on the Anglo-Wancho War. Wangsa, the author of ‘The Nginu Massacre’, has been at the forefront of advocating for the recognition of Arunachal’s unsung heroes.
“Bringing out the lost history of our ancestors has been a long and relentless journey, but today marks an accomplishment not just for me but for the entire Wancho community,” said the Agri Min.
On the occasion, local MLA Thangwang Wangham paid tribute to the forefathers, stating: “Our ancestors fought for our land, freedom, and culture against foreign rule. Today, it is time for our younger generation to fight for economic freedom, freedom from illiteracy, and freedom from poverty. We must work together to make Wancho a vibrant and progressive tribe.”
Chief of Ninu, Longwang Wangham, and researcher Wangsa also addressed the gathering, highlighting the historical significance of the Anglo-Wancho War of 1875.
As part of the commemoration, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) Arunachal Unit organized a Tiranga Yatra, a 3-km march that saw thousands of villagers from Longchan circle and beyond participating.
Students from various schools, including JNV Khapcho, Ninu Govt Sec School, De Paul Nisa, Primary School Nisa, Primary School Ninu and Nawmai Khunjing Wangchin Academy, also took part, paying tribute to their ancestral warriors.
The event was also attended by Longding DC, ZPMs from various blocks, Tai Tagak, Chairman of Namaste Bharat Foundation, Northeast India, and Biki Yader, State ABVP secretary, representatives from CBOs and village chiefs of Ninu, Nisa, Senua, Wakka, Longkai, Khogla and Kaimoi etc.
Notably, 2025 also marks the 150th anniversary of Bhagwan Veer Birsa Munda, India’s first tribal freedom fighter, which coincides with the Ninu-Anglo Wancho War, further emphasizing the importance of honoring the sacrifices of tribal warriors, stated an official press note.