The visit of Imkong L. Imchen, sitting MLA of 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency and Advisor for Soil & Water Conservation and Information & Public Relations, to Chungtia and Aliba villages on November 4 was not merely about inspecting the sanctioned road fund or extending administrative support but it denoted a symbolic homecoming, reaffirming his long-standing personal and political ties with the area.
A veteran politician currently serving his fifth term as legislator, Imchen’s visit carried the essence of reconnecting with his roots and strengthening the bond with the people among whom his political journey began. His itinerary included visits to Chungtia, Aliba villages and the Sapangya compound, as well as party meetings in both Chungtia and Aliba villages.
Interacting with the media during his visit to Chungtia, Imchen said that the Chungtia Village Planning Committee for the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) and the Chungtia Village Council had jointly met Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in Dimapur last year, where they submitted a technical set and told him, “Unless you help us, we have no other option.” He said the Chief Minister gave them a patient hearing and nodded in response. “At that time, I was not fully convinced, but as I followed the papers, just recently the fund had come from the Government of India and the Chief Minister had sanctioned ₹91 lakh. To me, that is a huge amount of money terming it ‘an act of mercy’ by the Chief Minister and it has given the much-needed push to the Chungtia villagers,” he stated.
Reflecting on his visit, Imchen added, “I started my political career and foundation from this village in 2003. I began from here, and I end up here. So, in the next election, I should give my entire hold and focus to Chungtia village.” When asked about his plans for the upcoming State election, he affirmed, “I am confident, and I will enthusiastically participate in the next election.”
Addressing the gathering at Chungtia Village, Imchen did not shy away from addressing the long-standing tensions, candidly admitting that his past decisions were influenced by political differences. He remarked that his earlier terms saw limited developmental and employment focus on Chungtia, indirectly acknowledging how rivalry had shaped administrative priorities over the years.
Imchen however expressed his commitment to support and contribute in every possible way toward the successful hosting of the AKM General Conference at Chungtia village. He said Chungtia is his second home, is dear to his heart as his political career foundation began here with Chungtia’s consensus candidate in 2003 election.
Er. Toshikba, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD), Roads & Bridges (R&B) Mokokchung Division, addressing the gathering at Chungtia Village said that this year the village is fortunate to receive the ‘Other Road Fund 2025-26,’ a funding source that is generally difficult for divisions in Nagaland to obtain. He added that, as the executive engineer covering six MLAs’ constituencies, he appreciated the efforts of the MLA, who raised the matter at the top level and secured a substantial amount for the village. Toshikba said they had been waiting for an appropriate time to commence the work, and with the AKM Conference approaching, the MLA pushed the department to start immediately.
He was accompanied by the SDO and the departmental workforce, to the village to begin the project. He informed that the work would start from November 6, even if the official sanction had not yet been received.
He also recalled that last year, the MLA had personally initiated the construction of a road at Sabangya, which was executed by the department. Toshikba expressed hope that the citizens were satisfied with the department’s work and requested the continued support of the village council and residents to facilitate the project this time as well.
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91 lakh sanctioned to Chungtia village for road construction
Chungtia village has been sanctioned INR 91 lakh under the “Other Road Fund 2025-26” for the construction of the damaged “Approach Road to Longtsüktep,” including the areas affected by landslides and land sinking earlier this year. The project will be executed by the PWD (R&B) Mokokchung Division under the supervision of Executive Engineer Er. Toshikaba. The construction work is being expedited in preparation for the 70th Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) General Conference, scheduled to be held at Chungtia village in January 2026.
During an interaction with the Aliba Village Council, Imkong L. Imchen remarked that Aliba’s mistake was its fear of other villages taking control of their village and should not be one enforced by fear or force. “Force should not prevail; Aliba’s sanity should be in truth,” he stated. He encouraged to maintain a close and respectful relationship
Speaking in relation to election matters, Imchen urged the Aliba Village Council to take its own decisions and responsibilities. He reminded the villagers that they must act independently while maintaining cordial ties with neighboring villages.
Imchen recalled that after being elected in 2003, he had wanted to help develop Aliba village and had made extra efforts toward that end. He said that in his assessment, he did not make distinctions among villages. “I am not being harsh; I am a public servant,” he said, adding that he has served the public for over 50 years and has come across many situations throughout his political career.
Referring to government projects, he informed that one or two villages would be selected for the “Iconic Project” next year but added that he could not make any commitments for Aliba at the moment. He assured that a decision would be made after he reached Kohima and discussed the related matters, adding that if the project concerned the guest house, he is ready to support while for other developments, it would be taken up one after another.
On political matters, Imchen said the BJP, would soon begin its activities in Aliba village. He described the BJP as a political party largely supported by the Hindu majority but emphasized that Aliba, being a Christian-majority village, should not perceive it from a religious standpoint. He said that the BJP maintain a working alliance with the present government.
He appealed for blessings and cooperation from the villagers, noting that he always holds meetings first with the village council and then with the party members, as village council play vital roles in governance. “We will not be slaves or make sacrifices,” he said, reminding the people that elections are important and must be approached responsibly.
The Aliba Village Council chairman expressed gratitude for the assistance extended by Imchen. He added that the council and the citizens value Imchen’s continued support and that the village’s development plans depend on his support.
