Members of Pfutsero Town Mothers’ Association and others during the ‘No Radar in Our Area’ rally on May 12 in Pfutsero. (Photo Courtesy: PTMA)
Kohima, May 12 (MExN): Standing in defence of their ancestral lands and future generations, hundreds of citizens gathered in Pfutsero for a massive protest rally organised by the Pfutsero Town Mothers’ Association (PTMA) under the banner “No Radar in Our Area” on May 12.
At the rally, a diverse crowd of women, men, and youth voiced a unified rejection of the proposed radar installation, citing grave concerns over health, economic displacement, and environmental degradation.
The program, chaired by Easter Puro, Vice President of the PTMA, opened with a sombre reflection on the potential impact of the project.
In her introductory address, Viekopeu Kenye, President of the PTMA highlighted the broader threat posed by the radar project to the community.
"If this radar is installed, our health, our economy, our land, and our fundamental freedom will be deeply compromised," Kenye maintained. "Our agriculture is the backbone of our daily livelihood. We urge every woman and right-thinking citizen to stand in solidarity to protect the sanctity of our town."
Zhonelu Tunyi, President of the Chakhesang Mothers’ Association (CMA) and Advisor to the PTMA, described the selection of Pfutsero as "sad and painful news."
She emphasised that while the community welcomes development that benefits the people, it will fiercely oppose any progress that hampers the safety of the land.
Tunyi highlighted the potential threat on Glory Peak, describing it as a local landmark known for its scenic and ecological significance, as well as an important agricultural area where hundreds of women depend on farming to support their families.
Speakers also raised alarms regarding the long-term radiation effects and health complications associated with high-frequency radar installations in residential and farming zones.
Local leaders also shared their grievances, echoing the sentiment that the security of the people must come before any unwanted infrastructure.
Constitutional rights and the call to action
Invoking the legal protections of the region, Tunyi reminded the assembly of the special provisions under Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, which protects Naga land and its resources.
“We have the right to decide what is best for our land,” Tunyi asserted, while calling on members of the community, particularly men, to take a stand for future generations.
She also acknowledged the efforts of Naga leaders and organisations that had raised concerns over the proposed radar project at an early stage.
The rally concluded with a strong call for men, the young and educated, to join the movement.
The programme also included intercessory prayers led by Muzinulu Rhakho, Women Secretary of the CBCC, and Lhiweu Wetsah, Women-in-Charge of the PBF.
Following the programme, the Pfutsero Town Mothers’ Association (PTMA) submitted a memorandum to the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pfutsero, reiterating its complete opposition to the proposed Advanced Radar System project.
The Association also expressed solidarity with the Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) and other organisations, civil society groups, and public bodies opposing the project, while demanding its immediate withdrawal.
It further appealed to the concerned authorities to respect the democratic rights, sentiments, and welfare of the people, and to revoke the proposed project in the interest of peace, safety, livelihood, and sustainable development.
