Patton inspects border dispute areas in Mokokchung

DIMAPUR — Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister, Y Patton, along with senior officials, visited two villages under the Tuli area of Mokokchung district on October 15 to address the ongoing border disputes with neighbouring Assam.

Patton, who also holds the portfolio of Home and Border Affairs, was accompanied by advisor of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, A Pangjung Jamir, Home secretary, Nagaland DGP Rupin Sharma and his subordinates and officials from the district administration.

A DIPR report stated that the team inspected key areas of concern including the Assam Police commando battalion camp at Septsuyong Lu in Kangtsung village and Wameken Yimsen village.

The visit was aimed at assessing the situation on the ground and engaging with local stakeholders amid growing tensions in the border area.

During discussion with the villagers and representatives of Ao Senden, Patton highlighted that the Nagaland cabinet had held a meeting on October 9 to deliberate on the matter, emphasising the government’s serious approach to resolving the dispute. He informed the villagers that letters had been sent to the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and the Chief Minister of Assam to address the issue adding that the state cabinet would be meeting with them soon.

Patton further urged the villagers not to sell their land to non-indigenous people, stressing the importance of preserving local land ownership in the region.