The Ralan Area Lotha Hoho (RALH) and Yamhon Area Public Organization (YAPO) have objected to a massive plantation drive allegedly by the Assam government in the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) in ‘C’ Sector under Ralan area in Wokha district and demanded that the plantation activities be stopped with immediate effect.

In a joint statement, the two bodies pointed out that unless there is a proper understanding and agreement between the government of Assam and Nagaland, status quo must be strictly maintained in the DAB area.

“Without prior mutual consent between the two states, no further plantation or development activities should be allowed, and all ongoing works must be put on an immediate halt,” the statement said.

They warned that if the neighbouring Assam government continues to plant trees or initiate any form of development in the disputed area, the RALH and YAPO will oppose such activities in the strongest manner possible and protect their ancestral land.

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Should any untoward situation arise out of the mentioned issues, the two bodies cautioned that the governments of Assam and Nagaland shall bear full responsibility.

“We also place on record that during the recent eviction drive, the people of Ralan area and Yamhon area extended full cooperation to the authorities. Volunteers from these communities worked tirelessly everyday in every possible manner to ensure smooth process. It is deeply disappointing that this goodwill and cooperation is now being disregarded through unilateral activities in our land,” the RALH and YAPO stated.

Affirming their commitment to protect their ancestral land, the two organisations urged upon the concerned authorities to act immediately in the interest of peace, mutual respect, and justice.