DIMAPUR — A more than eight decade border dispute between Pherima and Piphema villages was resolved on June 24, which was witnessed by Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) and Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO).
An update from WSH stated that officials from WSH, CPO, leaders from other organisations as well as leaders, GB, and council members from both villages attended the official programme that was conducted at Mid-Way Resort in Tsiepama village. It stated that the pastor of Piphema ‘A’ Baptist Church, Pezangulie Keyho had earlier recommended the laying of a border pillar and a prayer.
It added that the CPO president, Zhato Kimho; head GB of Pherima village, Vikato Ayemi; WSH president, Shikaho Zhimomi; and president of Piphema Khenu Krotho, Pelezetuo Kuotsu, have briefly spoke on the occasion. The thanksgiving and blessing was pronounced by Rev. Dr. Phughoto Sema, executive secretary of WSBAK.
In the programme, Taka Masa, senior advocate and mediator for Pherima village, gave a brief background of the case. He stated that on December 21, 2021, the two villages decided to withdraw the case from court and use mediation to resolve the issue.
It stated that on March 17, 2021, the court granted the mediators 60 days to complete their work. It added that on April 3, 2021, the two mediators representing the two villages namely Taka Masa for Pherima village and CT Jamir for Piphema village met the leaders of both villages and conducted inquiries and investigations. During the process, they have sought for extensions from the high court nine times and ultimately it took more than two years to resolve the conflict.
It mentioned that the final spot verification was completed on May 31, 2023, and both communities accepted the specified demarcation.
It stated that seven border stones/pillars were erected on June 7, 2023. It further stated that agreement papers were signed in the presence of WSH and CPO, GBs and councils of the villages as well as the mediators.
