DIMAPUR — The Naga Hoho has urged Nagaland
government “to start oil and natural gas exploration and consultation with
stakeholders concerned.”
In a statement issued on Monday, the Naga Hoho stressed that
it was high time for Nagaland’s economy to receive a boost through exploration
and production of petroleum. “Oil and natural gas are economically viable
resources, and a clear roadmap should be prepared for an early resumption of
oil exploration in the state,” it added.
According to the Naga Hoho, oil explorations in the disputed
Nagaland-Assam border areas must be “compiled together,” and the two state
governments should sign an “oil exploration & production license.”
“Till such time, the Naga Hoho demands that all the oil
activities which fall under Disturbed Area Belt must be stopped immediately,”
it stated.
In the meantime, the Naga Hoho urged the Naga people to
ponder over the benefits “if fossil fuel deposits were found in Nagaland and on
the impact this would have on the local economy.”
Referring to Article 371 (A), it asserted that the state has
the exclusive rights over its land and resources and urged the state government
to strengthen and reiterate the Nagaland Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulations,
2012, “outline the rules for petroleum and natural gas resources in Nagaland,
to start the oil exploration in all oil-bearing areas in Nagaland.”
It, however, added that the “issue of who owned the land and
resources still remains contested.” Maintaining that “opinion of all Nagas
should be consulted” for negotiation of oil royalty, it urged the state
government to be very prudent “while addressing the ongoing oil exploration.”
