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DIMAPUR — The Pfutsero Town Mothers' Association (PTMA) organised a protest rally in Pfutsero town in Phek district, under the banner "No radar in our area" on May 12.
During the rally, a diverse crowd of women, men, and youth voiced a unified rejection of the proposed radar installation, citing grave concerns over health, economic displacement, and environmental degradation, stated an update.
Viekopeu Kenye, President of the PTMA, delivered the introductory address, outlining the “holistic threat the radar poses” to the community.
"If this radar is installed, our health, our economy, our land, and our fundamental freedom will be deeply compromised," Kenye stated.
"Our agriculture is the backbone of our daily livelihood. We urge every woman and right-thinking citizen to stand in solidarity to protect the sanctity of our town," she said.
Zhonelu Tunyi, President of the Chakhesang Mothers' Association and Advisor to the PTMA, described the selection of Pfutsero for this project as "sad and painful news".
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She stated that while the community welcomes development that benefits the people, it will fiercely oppose any progress that hampers the safety of the land. She brought to light the specific threat to the Glory Peak area, a local landmark known for its beauty and ecological importance.
It was mentioned that the Glory Peak area is a vital agricultural hub where hundreds of women earn their livelihoods through farming to support their families.
Speakers raised alarms regarding the long-term radiation effects and health complications associated with high-frequency radar installations in residential and farming zones. Known for its favourable climate, pure water, and abundant produce, Pfutsero’s reputation as a flourishing town is at stake, Tunyi said.
She also reminded the assembly of the special provisions under Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, which protects the land and its resources.
"We have the right to decide what is good and what is bad for our land," she said. She challenged the community to take a stand for future generations and thanked fellow Naga leaders and organisations who sounded the alarm on the radar threat early on.
The rally concluded with a call for men, the young, and the educated to join the movement. Various local leaders shared their grievances, echoing the sentiment that the security of the people must come before unwanted infrastructure.
Later, the PTMA submitted a memorandum to the Phek Deputy Commissioner through the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Pfutsero.