RALH, YAPO object to Assam’s plantation drive in disputed belt

DIMAPUR — The Ralan Area Lotha Hoho (RALH) and the Yamhon Area Public Organisation (YAPO) have raised strong objections to the ongoing plantation drive being carried out by the Government of Assam in the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) in 'C' Sector under the Ralan area.

In a joint statement, the two organisations have demanded that the plantation activities be stopped with immediate effect, stating that until and unless there is a proper understanding and agreement between the governments of Assam and Nagaland, the status quo must be strictly maintained in the DAB area.

They said that without prior mutual consent between the two states, no further plantation or development activities should be allowed, and all ongoing works must be put to an immediate halt.

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In the event that the Government of Assam continues to plant trees or initiate any form of development in the disputed area, they said that the RALH and YAPO will oppose such activities in the strongest manner possible and protect their ancestral land.

They further said that should any untoward situation arise, the governments of Assam and Nagaland shall bear full responsibility.

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“We also place on record that during the recent eviction drive, the people of the Ralan area and Yamhon area extended full cooperation to the authorities. Volunteers from these communities worked tirelessly every day in every possible manner to ensure a smooth process. It is deeply disappointing that this goodwill and cooperation is now being disregarded through unilateral activities in our land,” the statement read.

The RALH and YAPO added that they stand firm in their commitment to defend their ancestral land and called upon the concerned authorities to act immediately in the interest of peace, mutual respect, and justice.