Medziphema, February 17 (MExN): The Chathe Valley Landholders Union (CVLU) under Tsüüma Village jurisdiction has condemned what it termed as “unwarranted actions” by the Maova Village Council (MVC) on February 13 and expressed support for the response taken by the Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO).
It also called for steps to ensure protection of landholders’ rights and restoration of peace in the area.
In a press release issued on February 17, the CVLU alleged that tensions stem from a long-standing land dispute between Naga landholders in the Chathe Valley area and the Maova Village Council. It claimed that the Council has been enforcing what it described as “Kuki customary law” in ways that adversely affect Naga landowners.
The Union alleged that since the 1990s, Naga landholders have faced restrictions and interference in the use and development of their properties in and around Maova Village. Citing an instance from 1995–96, the CVLU stated that one of its members who had purchased land and property in Maova Village allegedly lost possession after dismantling an existing structure to construct a new building, with the Village authorities reportedly claiming that ownership had lapsed under customary practices.
According to the CVLU, in recent years labourers engaged by landholders have allegedly been obstructed, and developmental activities such as fencing, construction and fish pond projects have faced resistance. It further alleged that certain structures were erected on land it claims belongs to its members.
The Union stated that several attempts were made to resolve the matter through dialogue with the MVC and those complaints were submitted to the district administration and law enforcement agencies. It also referred to a November 24, 2021 judgment of the Dobashi (DB) Court, Medziphema, which it said directed that no obstruction be caused to developmental activities or settlement. The CVLU alleged that despite this ruling, disputes have persisted.
It also took exception to remarks reportedly made by the MVC Chairman in media reports on February 14 and 15, alleging that they contained misinformation and further exacerbated the issue.
Apart from customary law, it further claimed that landholders were subjected to legal action for undertaking development on their own land.
Referring to the February 13 incident, the CVLU stated that a team from the CPO led by its president, was allegedly “mishandled” by some residents of Maova Village while attempting to meet the Village Council authorities to discuss the dispute.
The Union condemned the incident and urged the Government of Nagaland and relevant authorities to intervene and address the matter.
