The Centre Chakhesang Youth Organisation (CCYO) has lifted its non-cooperation movement and indefinite picketing at the offices of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Phek, and the Forest Range Offices at Phek and Pfutsero, following the fulfilment of its three chartered demands.

In a statement issued by its president, Dode Nakro, the CCYO described the decision as an important step forward in its movement and expressed gratitude to organisations, tribal bodies, civil society groups, youth organisations and individuals who supported the agitation.

The organisation also thanked the Naga people for their solidarity, stating that the response had highlighted the importance of collective action on issues concerning constitutional safeguards, customary practices and the rights of the Naga people.

However, the CCYO clarified that the lifting of the agitation did not signify the abandonment of its broader objective. It said the constitutional question concerning the application and implementation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, in Nagaland in relation to Article 371A of the Constitution of India remained an important issue requiring serious consideration.

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The organisation urged the state government to revisit and thoroughly examine the Wildlife (Protection) Act and other applicable laws that could affect rights and protections guaranteed under Article 371A, particularly those relating to Naga customary practices, social traditions, and the ownership and transfer of land and its resources.

The CCYO called for meaningful consultation with the people, tribal organisations, customary institutions and other concerned stakeholders in examining the matter.

Clarifying its position, the organisation stated that its objective was not to undermine wildlife conservation or environmental protection, but to ensure that conservation laws were implemented in a manner that respected constitutional safeguards, customary rights and the distinct identity of the Naga people.

Reaffirming its commitment to justice, accountability and transparency, the CCYO said it would continue to pursue the broader issues through peaceful, democratic and constitutional means until they received due attention from the appropriate authorities.

The organisation maintained that although the agitation had been lifted following the fulfilment of its immediate demands, its commitment to constitutional rights and the protection of customary institutions remained unchanged.