DIMAPUR — Citing
sensitive nature of ongoing land disputes in the area, the Tikhir Tribal
Council (TTC) has objected to the proposal of hosting Khaozaosie
Hok-ah-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival at Thonoknyu town.
In a letter to the Commissioner of Nagaland, TTC has
referred to the letter of SDO (C) of Thonoknyu dated December 10, 2024 and
subsequent corrigendum letter dated December 13, 2024, stating that Khaozaosie
Hok-ah-cum-Mini Hornbill Festival is scheduled to be held in the month of
January 2025.
“Thonoknyu town and village is currently embroiled in
unresolved land disputes, which makes it an unsuitable location for hosting an
event of this magnitude. The concerned is risk of aggravating tensions in a
disputed town, which may exacerbate between the two communities of the Tikhir
and Khiamniungan tribes, potentially leading to unrest or conflict,” the letter
stated.
It stated that conducting such an event in Thonoknyu could
be perceived as favouritism toward one party, as the golden jubilee celebration
of women and Baptist youth endeavour department of Tikhir Baptist Church in
Thonoknyu town were not allowed to celebrate in the year 2021 by the state
government owing to the counter claim of land issues between two communities.
It stated that there are other regions, towns and district
headquarters without such complications that would be better suited to host the
Khaozaosie Hok-ah programme ensuring a peaceful event.
In light of the above stated circumstances, TTC urged the
authorities not to give permission at Thonoknyu town to host the event in order
to avoid tribal issues.
It further stated that choosing a more neutral and
dispute-free location would uphold the integrity of the event so as to avoid
unnecessary complications such as risk of aggravating tension, lack of neutral
grounds and legal and administrative challenges etc.
It expressed hope that the matter would be considered with
due diligence.
