Kohima, February 21 (MExN): The Angami Youth Organization (AYO) has stated that it is closely monitoring developments in the Chakhroma area following the alleged assault on Chakhroma leaders by villagers from Maova village on February 13.
In a statement issued by its Media Cell, the AYO described the incident as shocking and alleged that the assailants had intended to cause grievous harm to the leaders. It stated that it was only by “God’s providence” that the Chakhroma leaders escaped the incident alive.
Recalling past events, the AYO referred to the 1995 killing of two Angami men, allegedly by Kukis from Tapho village in Manipur. The organisation stated that the incident had compelled it to issue a Quit Notice to Kukis residing within Angami jurisdiction at the time.
According to the statement, when Kuki leaders subsequently appealed to the Chakhroma Public Organization (CPO) for protection, the CPO requested the AYO to revoke the Quit Notice. The AYO stated that after Kuki leaders made a declaration on July 31, 1995, at Medziphema, the Quit Notice was kept in abeyance.
Quoting the 1995 declaration, the AYO stated that the Kuki leaders had pledged to respect and uphold the decisions of the landowners, namely the Chakhroma Public Organization, and not to go against the wishes of the Chakhroma Angamis in political or social matters.
The declaration further stated that in the event of disputes or conflicts within the Kuki villages or in matters concerning landholding, Angami Naga customary law would prevail. It also reportedly stated that the landowners would be at liberty to change the name of the villages if the situation so demanded.
The AYO, however, alleged that the “hostile, aggressive and belligerent” attitude of the Maova Kukis towards Chakhroma Angami leaders on February 13, has caused serious concern. It stated that the Quit Notice issued in 1995 had only been kept in abeyance and could be restored or revived at any time.
The organisation urged the Maova Village Council to comply with the ultimatum issued by the Chakhroma Youth Organization on February 16, in order to avoid any adverse consequences.
