Dimapur, Nov. 27 (EMN): The Lotha Hoho has expressed shock and surprise at the invitation of Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO) by the ‘business summit coordinator’ to a discussion on the widely-divided issue of Nagaland Special Development Zone (NSDZ) on Nov. 28 at Agri. Expo site in Dimapur. The proposed discussion is part of the ‘international trade expo’ organised by the Business Association of Nagas (BAN).
A press release from the Lotha Hoho on Monday stated that the organiser’s decision to “disregard and bypass the Lotha Hoho”, but invite a ‘sub-ordinate organisation to discuss a controversial matter’ – already objected to, and opposed, by the Lotha Hoho – was a clear indication ‘of an ulterior motive and a hidden agenda’.
According to the Lotha Hoho, this was an attempt at ‘infusing division and crisis within the Lotha community’. It reminded that the Lotha Hoho has submitted several objections to NSDZ in its present form, with the latest being a representation to the chief secretary on Oct. 9 last.
“The Lotha Hoho is opposed to the implementation of NSDZ within its jurisdiction for the following reasons: the resolution in the state consultative meeting of 26/9/2014, seeks (sic) to evolve permanent settlement of non-Nagas (Resolution No. VI), to liberalise the system of entry and stay of non-Nagas in the NSDZs (Resolution No. VII).
“Since the nature of the proposed NSDZ and in particular the two cited Resolutions (No.VI and VII), are contrary to the provisions of Article 371A of the Indian Constitution, the Lotha Hoho, will not allow the implementation of NSDZ within any Lotha area of wokha district or elsewhere. If earlier any ‘no objection certificate (NOC)’ had been issued or MOU signed for the NSDZ, the LH will treat such NOC and MOU, as null and void,” read the Lotha Hoho representation to the chief secretary.
“The LH (Lotha Hoho) stand being as such, the hoho will not honour any decision/resolution adopted on NSDZ, in its present form, by business summit or any agency. Such decision/resolution will instead be treated as an insult to the Lotha tribe and the Lotha Hoho will oppose tooth and nail such decision/resolution, if to implement within its jurisdiction,” it asserted.
