Kohima, December 13 (MExN): The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has appealed to tribe hohos, women associations, civil societies, and student and youth organizations in Nagaland to support the relocation of Assam Rifles (AR) camps from urban areas such as Kohima and Dimapur. The forum said that such a move would not only foster improved civil-military harmony but also unlock significant opportunities for urban development in the state.
The GNF highlighted key concerns arising from the current positioning of AR camps in densely populated areas, noting the adverse effects on civil-military relations, urban growth, and daily life in towns like Kohima and Dimapur.
The forum pointed to recurring incidents of friction between civilians and AR personnel, which have strained relations in the region. Citing the August 9, 2024 altercation between the Assam Rifles and the Angami Students' Union (ASU) in Kohima, the GNF stated that the prolonged presence of military forces under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has led to cultural misunderstandings and perceptions of heavy-handedness. Relocating AR camps, the forum believed, would ease tensions and promote lasting peace.
The GNF also underscored how the camps, occupying prime urban land, limit potential for development. The land could be repurposed for public parks, tourism infrastructure, recreational facilities, and community projects, it stated. “Transforming these spaces into tourism and cultural hubs could significantly boost local economies and enhance urban living standards,” the statement read.
The forum noted that the AR camps exacerbate traffic congestion in urban centers, disrupting mobility for residents. This has become a pressing issue in Kohima and Dimapur, where space is already constrained, it said.
The GNF cited successful precedents from other northeastern states such as Mizoram, Manipur, Tripura, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, where AR camps have been relocated to the outskirts of urban centers. For instance, Mizoram’s capital Aizawl saw its AR camps moved to Tlangnuai, freeing land for urban projects, while in Manipur, the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal was transformed into a cultural and tourism hub following the relocation of AR camps in 2004.
The appeal, it stated, aligns with the Government of Nagaland’s urban development initiatives, such as the Smart Cities Mission. The GNF proposed that vacated land be utilized for projects that generate revenue, such as tourism facilities and recreational centers, thereby contributing to the state’s economic growth.
The forum urged the state government to engage with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Assam Rifles leadership, and urban planning bodies to initiate the relocation process. It also called for a collaborative approach involving civil society and local stakeholders to ensure transparency and inclusivity.
Appealing to the Chief Minister and Home Minister of Nagaland, the GNF requested urgent action to address the issue.
"Relocating Assam Rifles camps will enhance urban development, reduce tensions, and contribute to the peace and prosperity of Nagaland. It will serve as a model for other northeastern states facing similar challenges," the letter stated.
The GNF expressed optimism that the proposal would garner support across political, tribal, and ideological lines, fostering a shared vision for a better future for the people of Nagaland.
