Nagaland: LVC opposes NH works over land dispute

Lamhai Village Council (LVC) has reiterated its opposition to proposed development along the what it called “disputed 11-km stretch of NH-329A” from Pimla Junction/Mhaikam Village to Mhainamtsi Village.
In a press release, LVC chairman Hekwebang Hairangtuing asserted that no project would be allowed until the state government formally recognised Lamhai’s ancestral land ownership and awards compensation.
The council welcomed development initiatives in principle but affirmed that progress cannot come at the cost of the village’s birthright. LVC recalled that the original alignment of NH-129A (notified in 2014) was diverted due to unresolved land disputes after Lamhai withheld No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the Mhainamtsi-Pimla Junction stretch.
Despite this, LVC said MoRTH re-notified the alignment in 2021 under NH-329A, incorporating the disputed area where several “government-unrecognised villages” have allegedly encroached.
The council maintained that the traditional boundary between Chümoukedima Village (Chümoukedima District) and Lamhai Village (Peren District), ran from Tehaiki/Khova River-Ngeuriezang/Lhoupralie Thethei range to Balu Nallah/Keciangreu-Halflongzaireu/Metsieru-Nkwareu, joining the Dhansiri River.
It further maintained that all settlements between Mhainamtsi and Mhaikam/Pimla Junction were illegal encroachments.
LVC said it had consistently opposed any works including short-term maintenance contract repairs until ownership was lawfully settled.
The council also expressed sorrow over the loss of 14 villagers since 1976 defending their land, including the March 22, 2021, killing of three members at Lamhai Namdi village.
It said a special investigation team chargesheeted 19 accused, but 12 remained absconding with no further action.
Stating that compensating illegal occupants would legitimise encroachment, LVC urged MoRTH and the state government to address the core land ownership issue before proceeding.
LVC said that it would not obstruct development if competent authorities recognised their rightful ownership and award compensation to Lamhai village.
However, LVC warned that denial of recognition and compensation would lead to continued opposition.
Stating that no “No Man’s Land” existed in Nagaland, LVC called for mutual respect and urged right-thinking citizens to support its stand for peaceful coexistence.