Border tension sparks scuffle at Roni Old in Wokha, three arrested

WOKHA — A scuffle broke out between two groups at around 4.30 pm on August 15 when some individuals from Assam entered Roni Old under Bhandari subdivision in Nagaland while returning from a picnic.

According to sources, an altercation ensued when local residents questioned the visitors over their identity and travel documents, including Aadhaar and Inner Line Permit (ILP), amid heightened tensions along the Nagaland-Assam border.

The area has recently witnessed eviction drives targeting illegal settlers encroaching on reserved forest land.

The situation escalated when three local youths allegedly assaulted the visitors and reportedly fired ‘air rifles’ after the latter failed to produce valid documents.

Nagaland Police swiftly intervened and arrested the three individuals the same evening. They are currently in police custody.

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A border magistrate-level meeting was convened on August 16 to address the incident. Officials confirmed that the meeting was held in a positive spirit, aimed at de-escalating tensions and fostering mutual understanding.

Reliable sources informed Eastern Mirror that normalcy has returned to the area, with both parties working towards a resolution through dialogue and cooperation.

A joint meeting was held at Roni Old involving the Roni Old Village Council, area elders from Assam and Nagaland, and the victims’ families.

During the meeting, it was resolved that the three assaulters would bear 60% of the medical expenses upon submission of original cash memos. Both parties also agreed not to allow any future conflict to arise in connection with the incident.