Opposition is growing in Nagaland over the Indian Air Force radar project in Phek district, with groups citing land rights, environment and lack of consultation concerns.
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DIMAPUR — As opposition mounts against the proposed Indian Air Force (IAF) mountain radar installation in Pfutsero, the Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) has joined a growing chorus of organisations raising concerns over land rights, environmental impact, and lack of public consultation.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, the CYF backed the stand adopted by the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) in safeguarding customary land ownership and community rights protected under Article 371(A) of the Constitution.
The front asserted that any infringement on these rights would not be tolerated.
Questioning the state government’s approach, the CYF alleged that no proper or transparent consultation was conducted with the local community prior to proposing the project.
Also read: CPO opposes proposed mountain radar installation at Pfutsero, seeks relocation outside Nagaland
Highlighting its objections, the organisation stated that Pfutsero is among the most densely populated towns in the district, and installing such infrastructure in its core area could adversely affect residents.
It also pointed out that the proposed site is an emerging tourist destination contributing to the local economy, particularly benefiting youth, and warned against disrupting this “economic lifeline.”
The CYF further stressed the community’s longstanding commitment to environmental conservation, stating that the Chakhesang people have formally resolved to protect biodiversity since 2000.
It expressed concern that the project could disturb forests and wildlife that have been preserved over generations.
Agriculture, the youth front stated, would also be impacted, as the selected site is surrounded by organic farmland.
It also raised concerns over water scarcity in the mountainous region, stating that residents rely heavily on groundwater and natural springs.
The CYF warned that the radar installation could affect water distribution and potentially contaminate water sources and soil.
While acknowledging the importance of national security, the front maintained that such initiatives should not come at the cost of local communities and their constitutional rights.
It also pointed out that Phek district does not share an international boundary and therefore does not face any direct foreign threat.
The organisation urged Nagaland government and authorities concerned to relocate the proposed project outside Phek district.
It cautioned that any attempt to implement the project without community consent would be met with strong resistance.