Hohos decry govt’s selective invite to Foothills meet

Several tribal hohos/unions have expressed dismay at the exclusion of leaders from the Chang, Khiamniungan, Sangtam, Yimkhiung, Tikhir, and Rengma tribes from the meeting held on August 7, convened by the state government at the Chief Minister’s residential complex to discuss the Nagaland Foothills Road project.
In a joint statement, presidents of – Ao Senden, Ao Senso Telongjem Dimapur, Konyak Union Dimapur, Northern Sumi Community Dimapur, Phom Peoples’ Union Dimapur, Zeliang People’s Organisation Dimapur, general secretary Kuki Inpi Nagaland and chairman Lotha Hoho- said they were deeply hurt and disturbed with the selective approach of the state government, wherein those excluded had selflessly contributed to the project with toil and tears for nearly 13 years.
The signatories reiterated that the Foothills Road Project belonged to the entire Naga family and not just the landowners, adding no individual or tribe can claim “superiority or supremacy over the project.” The signatories said though the project may pass through one tribe’s land, yet the future projects would require sacrifices from others.
The signatories also reminded that the Nagaland Foothills Road was conceptualised by the Nagaland Foothills Coordination Committee (NFHRCC) in 2013, and despite many challenges and setbacks, the committee remained steadfast in its commitment to the project.
They also acknowledged the committee’s relentless efforts and appreciated its strong dedication over the past decade. The signatories also maintained that once the project became operational, it will transform the economic landscape of the Nagas and the benefits of which will be reaped by future generations.
Thus, they said, keeping that vision in mind, Naga leaders have been working tirelessly for more than ten years without any ulterior motive.
The signatories however, lamented that instead of appreciating and encouraging, adopting a pick-and-choose policy could cause damage to the Naga family and that the historic project may face ugly consequences.
They also reminded that governments come and go but that the project will remain and contribution made by the Naga leaders towards the historic project cannot be erased.
Referring to the circular dated August 1, where only 15 MLAs were invited to the meeting, signatories questioned the exclusion of the remaining 45 MLAs.
They asserted that all 60 MLAs are equally responsible for the development of the state, especially under the present opposition-less government where all have equal right to share their opinion with regard to the project.
The signatories also expressed shock that the NFHRCC, which had spearheaded the Foothills Road initiative, was once again excluded.
They recalled that on April 30, 2025, all apex tribal hohos and all 60 MLAs were invited for a meeting, except the NFHRCC.
Following public criticism, they said the meeting was postponed and re-convened for August 7 but again NFHRCC, six apex tribal hohos, and 45 MLAs were not included.
The signatories extended solidarity and expressed appreciation and gratitude to leaders from Chang, Khiamniungan, Sangtam, Yimkhiung, Tikhir, and Rengma tribes for their selfless contributions and expressed their pain and agony and reaffirmed a commitment to remain as one and work together till the historic project is successfully completed.