Demarcation of boundaries through satellite imaging not viable — Naga Hoho

Dimapur, Aug. 10 (EMN): The Naga Hoho on Tuesday stated that the government of India’s recent proposal to demarcate boundaries of the north-eastern states through satellite imaging “will not be viable or acceptable to the people”.

It stated in a press release that every society or community is defined by a distinct boundary line drawn either traditionally inherited or out of administrative convenience with the consent of the people but arbitrary demarcation of the Assam-Nagaland border by the British government without the prior consent of the people has led to conflict.

“The imposition of the state’s will on the people has only invited conflict rather than peace and tranquillity in the region. If only India is serious and have political will, the issue would be resolved once and for all,” it stated.

The Naga Hoho went on to say that the indigenous people of the area must be first taken into confidence to resolve any border disputes.

“The affected people in the border areas needs to be consulted and should mutually agree for any resolution of the conflict. Forceful demarcation of boundary line against the wishes of the people would only invite the wrath of the people,” it said.

It also stated that various Interim Agreements signed between the governments of Assam and Nagaland must be reviewed in the best interest of the two states

“It is regretted that, both the states particularly Assam, have literally failed to uphold the agreements and therefore, there has been continuous volatile situation in the border areas,” read the press release.

To arrive at a long lasting solution and revive the age-old relationship between the two states, it said the historical facts should be placed in the right perspectives.

The Naga Hoho also lauded the government of Nagaland for constituting a High Powered Committee on Border Affairs under the chairmanship of the chief minister. It urged the committee to expedite the matter and bring about a permanent settlement, which will usher in peace, development and progress in the region.