LLRPO urges Nagaland government to address border anomalies, oil exploration concerns, Foothills Road delays and strengthen administrative presence urgently
DIMAPUR — Raising a series of demands on border management, oil exploration and infrastructure, the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO) has urged Nagaland government to take time-bound measures to safeguard the state's territorial integrity, strengthen governance in border areas and expedite key development projects.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the organisation expressed concern over inaccuracies in geo-tagged state boundaries on digital mapping platforms, including Google Maps, where some administrative areas of Nagaland are reportedly shown under Assam. It stated that such discrepancies could create confusion, weaken administrative claims and undermine the state's position in matters relating to jurisdiction and boundary administration.
The LLRPO urged the government to initiate steps with the appropriate authorities to ensure Nagaland's official geographical boundaries are accurately reflected on digital platforms and notified for public awareness.
On interstate border management, the organisation called for a stronger administrative presence from Nagaland during border coordination meetings. It pointed out that while Assam is usually represented by senior officials such as the deputy commissioner and superintendent of police, Nagaland is often represented by comparatively junior officers.
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According to the organisation, deputing senior-ranking officers to official border meetings would strengthen the state's position during deliberations. It also argued that the long-pending demand for the creation of Bhandari district would improve administrative efficiency in the region.
The LLRPO further sought the establishment of an Excise outpost headed by an Inspector along the Wokha-Merapani road to curb drug trafficking and the movement of illicit substances, describing the route as a major transit corridor. It also proposed the appointment of a dedicated border magistrate for Bhandari subdivision and the setting up of an Inner Line Permit cell at the check gate to check the influx of illegal immigrants.
On oil exploration, the organisation reiterated its support for the memorandum of understanding signed between the Lotha Hoho and the Nagaland government but sought greater clarity on its implementation. It called for assurances on the rehabilitation and welfare of all communities likely to be affected by oil exploration activities.
The organisation also urged the government to publish a digital map, along with geo-coordinates, of the Disputed Area Belt and a list of all affected villages to ensure transparency and eliminate public confusion. It further sought clarification on whether the first phase of oil exploration would be confined to the DAB or extend to areas outside it.
Reiterating its support for the Foothills Road project, the LLRPO urged the government to resume the second phase without delay while ensuring high standards of construction quality, durability and accountability. It assured to continue monitoring the quality of work to ensure public resources are used responsibly.