Deputy Commissioner (DC) Chümoukedima, Abhinav Shivam, has asked Diezephe village and Tsithrongse village to maintain status quo as directed by the Supreme Court. The tension between the two villages erupted over land issue on February 10 last resulting in significant property damage.
Speaking to the media after meeting the representatives from two villages, Tenyimia Union Dimapur (TUD) and Eastern Nagaland People’s Union Dimapur (ENPUD), the DC Chümoukedima, Abhinav Shivam, described the February 10 incident as “unfortunate” and said that “misinformation” led to tensions.
He said that the incident was a result of differing perceptions regarding the Supreme Court’s directives. Shivam said that “some sense” had prevailed in people following the meeting.
Underscoring the legal complexity of the matter, DC stressed on the ongoing judicial process and urged both the villages to exercise restraint.
Asked about the reported gunfire during the incident, DC said that the matter had been referred to law enforcement authorities for investigation. On the follow-up actions, Shivam disclosed that the leaders of two villages would engage their communities and come together for future discussions with regard to the ongoing legal proceedings and the importance of peaceful conflict resolution.
Both parties have been directed to maintain the status quo in accordance with Supreme Court directives and historical precedent dating back to the 1990s.
Former council chairman of Diezephe village, Velasuzo, commenting on the recent incident, stressed that both parties involved have been cautioned against further involvement in any activities and leave the decision to the courts.