DIMAPUR, OCT 12 (NPN): Khiamniungan Students’ Union (KSU) has served a seven-day ultimatum on the Public Works Department (Roads & Bridges) to provide a detailed, documentary-backed explanation for the reported closure and prolonged delays in two road projects in Noklak district, citing discrepancies in the department’s response under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.
In a press release, the union expressed dissatisfaction with the department’s reply on the Chendang Saddle-Pangsha (Phase-II) road project and Noklak-Thonoknyu road via Sanglao, saying it had failed to clarify their implementation status and the circumstances surrounding the stoppage of work.
KSU said conflicting explanations over land compensation, alleged intervention by organisations, suspension of work during COVID-19 pandemic and discontinuation of non-lapsable central pool of resources (NLCPR) scheme had raised questions about transparency and accountability.
The student body said the department’s reply dated September 28, 2026, reportedly attributed the closure or discontinuation of the project to the withdrawal of NLCPR scheme by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), while the contractor had reportedly cited unresolved land compensation issues for the stoppage of work in 2022.
KSU demanded that the department reconcile the two explanations and provide village-wise details of land compensation assessed, sanctioned, disbursed and outstanding, along with relevant dates, amounts and supporting records, subject to applicable disclosure requirements.
The union also sought clarification on statements reportedly made by PWD (R&B) chief engineer and the contractor on July 12, 2024, concerning an NGO or organisation allegedly linked to the stoppage of work. It asked the department to identify the organisation and provide details of the circumstances, relevant records and any inquiry or action taken.
Further, KSU sought the exact period and reasons for the reported suspension of work for nine-ten months during COVID-19 pandemic, including the authority responsible and the government orders or official records supporting the explanation.
On the reported closure or discontinuation of the projects, the union demanded an evidence-based account of the circumstances, clarification of the responsibilities of the department and contractor, details of proposed corrective measures and a definite timeline for completing the outstanding work, subject to necessary approvals and funding.
The union has asked the department to submit a satisfactory, point-wise written response supported by documentary evidence within seven days of receiving the formal notice. It warned that failure to respond, or an incomplete or unsupported reply, would compel it to consider appropriate democratic and lawful action before competent authorities.
KSU held the state government and the department accountable for addressing the concerns, warning that continued administrative inaction and prolonged delays could intensify public frustration. It said any consequences arising from a failure to address the grievances would be raised before the appropriate authorities in accordance with the law.
Emphasising the importance of road connectivity for access to education, healthcare, transportation, economic activities and essential services, the union urged the government and department to treat the matter with urgency, provide transparent explanations and take concrete steps to complete the projects.
KSU reiterated its commitment to pursuing the matter through peaceful, democratic and lawful means, stating that the public’s patience should not be mistaken for indifference and that the concerns of affected communities should not be ignored.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026