NSF on Mekirang village land

EMN KOHIMA, AUGUST 26

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has strongly condemned the statement under the caption “ AASU (All Assam Students’ Union) protests over Assam paying land tax to Nagaland” published on August 14 and questioned the sinister intention of certain Adivasi youth trying to induce enmity between the Nagas and Assamese people (Mekirang village and Garbasti) who has an age old cordial relationship. A release issued by NSF general secretary Esther Rhakho and secretary finance Shikavi Achumi said that the land, which is declared as disputed area by some selfish Adivasis using the name and good office of AASU, is never a disputed land but it belongs to Mekirang village (Lotha community) and since time immemorial, Garbasti have been paying tax to Mekirang villagers for cultivation. However, it said, for the past few years since the people of Garbasti have refused to pay tax to Mekirang village council, a joint meeting of Mekirang village and Garbasti was held on July 22, 2013 at Addl. Deputy Commissioner Office, Bhandari to discuss the matter of cultivation Mekirang village, wherein they have unanimously resolved five points for strict implementation. Lamenting that there are people who always try to create misunderstanding among the people in border areas, the NSF therefore appealed to the villagers to remain vigilant from such misleading and provocative action instigated by selfish and politically motivated person. Appealing both the villagers to honour the decision taken on July 22 in letter and spirit, the NSF has also urged them to continue to maintain cordial relationship as age old neighbours. The Naga Students’ Federation also requested the state government to set up permanent police out post for the safety and security of the people.