DIMAPUR: The Pfutsero Town Mother’s Association (PTMA) organised a massive protest rally at Pfutsero Town on May 12 under the banner “No Radar in Our Area”, voicing strong opposition to the proposed radar installation in the region.
The rally, chaired by PTMA vice president Easter Puro, drew a diverse crowd of women, men and youth who expressed concerns over health risks, economic displacement and environmental degradation.
Delivering the introductory address, PTMA president Viekopeu Kenye warned that the radar project posed a holistic threat to the community. “If this radar is installed, our health, our economy, our land and our fundamental freedom will be deeply compromised,” she said, urging citizens to stand in solidarity to protect the sanctity of Pfutsero.
Chakhesang Mothers’ Association (CMA) president and PTMA advisor Zhonelu Tunyi described the project as “sad and painful news.” While welcoming development initiatives that benefit people, she stressed that the community would resist any progress that endangered land and livelihoods. Tunyi highlighted the ecological and agricultural importance of the Glory Peak area, where hundreds of women sustain their families through farming.
Speakers raised alarms about long-term radiation effects and health complications linked to high-frequency radar installations in residential and farming zones. They cautioned that Pfutsero’s reputation as a “flourishing town,” known for its favorable climate, pure water and abundant produce, was at stake.
Tunyi also reminded the gathering of the constitutional safeguards under Article 371(A), which protect Naga land and resources. “We have the right to decide what is good and what is bad for our land,” she asserted, thanking Naga leaders and organisations for raising early concerns about the radar threat.
The rally concluded with calls for men, particularly the “young and educated,” to join the movement. Local leaders echoed the sentiment that community security must take precedence over unwanted infrastructure.
The PTMA has submitted a memorandum to the DC Phek through the ADC Pfutsero stating the following points.
Women’s Safety: The proposed radar site is regularly accessed by women and young girls for farming and daily livelihood activities. Establishing a high-security zone may restrict free movement and create fear, insecurity, and risks to dignity.
Farmers’ Livelihood: Surrounding lands are actively cultivated. Any acquisition or restrictions will directly affect farming activities, burdening families dependent on agriculture.
Economic Losses: Pfutsero’s scenic beauty, tourism potential, and agricultural economy—especially sites like Glory Peak and Peak of Hope—would be negatively impacted. Disruption to tourism and farming could cause long-term economic setbacks.
Community Rights: The memorandum emphasizes constitutional safeguards under Article 371(A), affirming the community’s right to decide what is beneficial or harmful for their land and resources.
Disruption to Education: The radar site is near a college and school, risking disturbance to the academic environment and creating fear among students, teachers, and parents.
Non-Consultation: The project was initiated without proper consultation, consent, or public hearing with local stakeholders, raising objections over transparency and democratic rights.
Past Experiences: Previous military presence in the area left negative impressions, heightening apprehensions about the proposed radar installation.
PTMA has also adopted resolutions to firmly rejects the proposed Advanced Radar System project at Pfutsero. The association pledged full support to the Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) and other civil bodies opposing the project. PTMA strongly demanded immediate revocation and withdrawal of the radar project. The association urged authorities to respect democratic rights and halt the project in the interest of peace, safety, livelihood and sustainable development.
The programme was marked by spiritual support, with intercessory prayers led by Women Secretary of CBCC, Muzinulu Rhakho and benediction pronounced by women-in-charge of PBF, Lhiweu Wetsah.
Later, PTMA submitted a memorandum to the Phek Deputy Commissioner through the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Pfutsero, formally registering its opposition to the radar project.
