Lotha CSOs suspend bandh along NH-2 in Nagaland’s Wokha district

DIMAPUR — The Lotha civil society organisations (CSOs) have suspended its ongoing bandh along the National Highway- 2 passing through Wokha district, following an appeal from legislators from the Lotha community.

In a press release on Tuesday, the CSOs emphasised that it is only a temporary suspension to allow negotiations between the concerned contractor and government authorities.

“Keeping in view the direction issued by the Chief Engineer, National Highways, Nagaland, vide No. NIL dated February 8, 2024, to the contractor, TTC Infra, to resume the project work, within ten days (latest by Feb. 17, 2024); the ongoing bandh shall be put on hold,” the CSOs stated, outlining some ‘terms and conditions.’

Among others, it stipulated that the bandh would be suspended with effect from “midnight of 13th– 14th February 2024, till the 17th February 2024 (midnight of 17th – 18th February 2024) subject to re-imposition.”

The offices of the Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, and that of the SDO, NH, Wokha, shall remain locked till the completion of the demolition and acquisition of paid structures and plots of land, it added.

It also stated that the Lotha legislators, the concerned government authorities, led by Deputy Chief Minister, TR Zeliang, who is also in charge of National Highway and the contractor, M/s TTC Infra India Pvt Ltd, “will do the needful to settle the issue, at the earliest.”

Subsequently, the Lotha Students’ Union issued a circular, informing the All Nagaland Private Schools Association (ANPSA), Wokha Unit, that the closure of educational institutions by the student body on Feb. 11 has been suspended, in light of recent developments.

“However, should the bandh persist or if any further disruptions arise, we appeal for your continued support and collaboration. In times of uncertainty and unrest, it is crucial that we stand together to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and staff. Your cooperation in such circumstances will be invaluable in navigating through any challenges that may arise,” the LSU circular stated.