Lotha student body concerned over eviction drive in Assam

DIMAPUR — The Lotha Middle Range Students' Union (LMRSU) has expressed concern over the ongoing eviction of illegal immigrants in the Nagaland-Assam border areas.

In a press release, the union stated that the recent initiative by the Government of Assam to identify and deport illegal immigrants has raised significant concerns among the Naga public.

“The Lotha community, in particular, has been affected, with reports of immigrants settling near our borders and taking refuge in certain hill areas,” it stated.

The union urged the relevant authorities to coordinate closely with village councils, local bodies, and NGOs to conduct thorough inspections and enforce the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system strictly within its jurisdiction.

It maintained that the collective effort aims to “Protect our cultural identity and community interests, safeguard our ancestral lands and natural resources, and preserve the demographic integrity of our region.”

Also read: Dimapur DC meets civil bodies as Assam intensifies eviction drives

The union also call upon all stakeholders to support the initiative and work together to address the pressing issue.

“The LMRSU remains steadfast in its commitment to the well-being and prosperity of the Lotha community and the larger Naga society,” it stated.

“As guardians of our cultural heritage, we are committed to preserving and safeguarding our traditions and identity.”

KTCN urges border residents to be alert

The Kachari Tribal Council, Nagaland (KTCN) has appealed to the Kacharis of Nagaland, particularly the residents of the villages along the state borders to remain alert to the possible influx of illegal migrants from across the border.

Read more: Border districts in Nagaland step up vigilance amid fears of influx following Assam evictions

In a press release, the KTCN reminded that most of Kachari villages from Manglumukh to Kushiabill village are located along 40 to 50 kilometres porous borders sharing with Karbi Anglong and therefore, there is every possibility of movement of illegal migrants from outside as a result of the ongoing eviction drive in Assam.

“If any case of such entry of illegal migrants is found, the village authorities are requested to report immediately to the nearest administration or police stations.

The village authorities are also requested not to provide shelter to any unknown people without verifying his/her identity as the legal citizen our state,” the council stated.