Reaffirms resolution not to allow resuming work until payment is made
Zunheboto, May 21 (MExN): The SARDP Sumi Area Affected Landowners Welfare Committee (SSAALWC) on Friday rejected the joint resolution of the District Administration, Police, Sumi Hoho, SOUZ and SKH taken on May 20, terming it a “hasty, harsh and provoking decision”.
In its letter to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) a day after the joint resolution, the SSAALWC stated that the joint resolution was taken “without consultation”, due to which the Committee comprising of 8 villages have collectively resolved to out rightly reject the joint resolution.
It may be mentioned that a day earlier, on May 20, the District Administration, Police, Sumi Hoho, SOUZ and SKH had informed of the SSAALWC’s decision to withdraw its agitation and allow the 2-lane road project to resume.
However, on May 21, the Committee issued a rejoinder stating that instead of addressing their demand, the signatories of joint resolution served intimidation “like common criminals.”
The SSAALWC also cited a ‘gross violation’ of land ownership rights on the part of the signatories of joint resolution.
“We will not allow/compromise any repressive action in our God’s given ancestral land without oral/written approval from me/us,” the Committee asserted.
While clarifying that it is not against the overall development, it stated that the claims of the aggrieved landowners should first be fulfilled.
The ongoing arbitration between the Nagaland State government Vs Gayatri & Maytas has nothing to do with the landowners, it stated, adding that it is the “problem of the government competent authority(s).”
It reaffirmed the previous resolution that till the payment is made, the Committee would not allow any construction company(s) to continue their work.
“…if any conflicts/clashes arises between the (a) beneficiaries/landowners (b) police forces/arm forces; and (c) construction company, resulting to death/injury, the sole responsibility will be borne by the signatories of joint resolution,” the SSAALWC cautioned.
