NSCN-IM activists patrol the road to Hebron. Picture by Eastern Projections

Dimapur, Dec. 14: The Tricolour peeked out from beneath the black covers of the flag-staff on the official vehicles assigned to ferry Naga leaders Isak Chishi Swu and Th. Muivah from the airport to Manglamukh. The flags almost went unnoticed till some state police personnel noticed and removed them.

Moments later, NSCN (I-M) chairman Swu and its general secretary Th. Muivah got into the vehicles and started their historic ?homecoming? journey to the outfit?s camp, Hebron, in Manglamukh.

The leaders were given a perfect guard of honour on reaching the council headquarters (CHQ) of the outfit by its armed wing. The activists were armed with Kalashnikov rifles and other weapons.

Over 5,000 people turned up at the CHQ Ground to listen to the visiting leaders. Many of them made it a point to turn up in traditional dress and with NSCN flag bearing Rainbow and Star of David.

?We know you will never let us down. You have bravely fought for our rights for years,? an NGO representative said in his speech.

Muivah reciprocated the trust reposed in him and the outfit by reiterating that the NSCN (I-M) leaders would never let the Naga people down as they negotiate with the Centre. He also asked the people to air their views and opinions because ?we are at a crucial stage?.

He said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had assured them that ?since the history of the Nagas was unique, the solution would also be unique?.

Swu said they have come for a month, but would not stay beyond January.

Earlier, several people, including little children, waved the NSCN flag as the convoy passed villages and small towns on their way to the council headquarters.