Advisor Kudecho Khamo flags false ancestral land claims

LONGLENG — Advisor for CAWD and Taxes, Kudecho Khamo, on Friday expressed concern that in many parts of the state, there are landowners who, despite selling their land and receiving compensation—and in some cases securing government employment—still claim ancestral land.

Addressing the inauguration programme of the General Administration (GA) Guest House at Longleng, the advisor said that the practice of claiming ancestral land despite having received compensation should be discontinued to facilitate development.

Khamo condemned the practice as legally, traditionally, and morally wrong, calling it a shame and sin. He lamented that despite being Christians, the Naga people haven't recognised the issue.

Also read: National training for Block Level Officers held in Tseminyu

He also pointed out that in earlier times, there were no issues related to land for developmental purposes, while acknowledging the landowners for their generosity in paving the way for development.

He maintained that the government, realising the recurring problems, has changed its approach through outright purchase of land for developmental purposes.

Highlighting the recent political development in the state, Khamo welcomed the NCP’s shift to NDPP, with legislator A Pongshi Phom joining, strengthening Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio's government. He called for bolstering the party and government at the grassroots level, assuring that Rio's government prioritises state development.

He also emphasised the initiatives of the state government such as the Chief Minister's Health Insurance Scheme (CMHIS), Chief Minister’s Micro-Finance Initiative (CMMFI), and the Skills and Entrepreneurs Development Mission, while advising people to avail themselves of these facilities.

Khamo asserted that the government is committed to the development of the state and appealed for public cooperation and support.

A Pongshi Phom, MLA, who is also the chairman of the DPDB Longleng, expressed delight at the inauguration of the new facility in the district.

He advised the people to take ownership of government properties, adding that these are public properties meant for posterity. He appealed for public patience, stating that the government is seriously working and committed to the development of the state.

The technical report for the construction of the GA Rest House was presented by Sungtiba Amer, Assistant Chief Engineer of CAWD. Amer acknowledged the timely and quality execution of the project by the contractor. He also highlighted several key works completed and inaugurated under the leadership of Kudecho Khamo.

Y B Angam Phom, President of the Phom People’s Council (PPC), expressed gratitude for fulfilling the long-cherished dreams and aspirations of the Phom people through the inauguration of the GA Guest House.

He also appealed for upgrade of the DC official residence, DC office complex and other administrative offices in the Longleng district, to bring the district at par with the rest of the state.

Earlier, DC Longleng W Manpai Phom, in his welcome address, highlighted the long-standing need for the GA Guest House in Longleng to accommodate dignitaries and visitors due to the district's lack of proper facilities.

The DC said that the guest house will greatly benefit the district's people and thanked the contractor and department for completing the project successfully.

Later, Advisor Khamo, MLA Pongshi Phom and others also inspected the ongoing construction of the ADC office complex at Tamlu.