WOKHA, AUGUST 4 (MExN): The Lotha Hoho (LH) has expressed deep sorrow and strong condemnation over the death of a 72-year-old farmer, Rentsamo Odyuo, who was trampled by a wild elephant at New Riphyim Village in Wokha district on August 2.
Describing the incident as a “heartbreaking tragedy” and a “stark reminder” of the growing human-elephant conflict in the region, the apex tribal body said the recurring threat posed by wildlife has severely disrupted the lives and livelihoods of villagers in Wokha.
It further stated that the lack of effective and long-term mitigation measures by the concerned authorities amounts to a serious lapse, and cautioned the Nagaland Government that continued inaction could result in more such tragedies.
“Human life is irreplaceable. Safety and preventive measures must be prioritized where human lives and normal activities are at risk,” the Lotha Hoho said in a statement issued by its media cell.
‘Initiate sustainable community-inclusive strategies’
The organisation urged the state government and the Forest Department to initiate sustainable, community-inclusive strategies to address human-elephant conflict. It called for the immediate deployment of rapid response teams and early warning systems in vulnerable areas, and demanded the disbursement of ex-gratia and compensation to the bereaved family.
“Though no amount of money can replace a life, it is a moral and civic duty to support those left behind,” it said, while also seeking long-term assistance for families affected by human-wildlife conflict.
The Lotha Hoho further demanded the upgradation of the Doyang Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) office to a Wildlife Range or Wildlife Division, noting that Wokha district has witnessed the highest frequency of such incidents in Nagaland.
It also appealed that at least 50% of newly recruited forest guards be deployed in Wokha district, stating that most other districts do not face similar levels of conflict.
Standing in solidarity with the family of the deceased and the people of New Riphyim village, the Lotha Hoho urged the authorities to act with “compassion, urgency, and foresight” to prevent further loss of life.
