Lotha bodies discuss human-elephant conflict, border disputes, foothill road

Lotha organizations on Tuesday discussed major issues affecting the community including the ongoing Assam-Nagaland border dispute, the escalating human-elephant conflict in Wokha district, and the alignment of the Nagaland foothill road through the district.
The meeting held at the Merapni Marachu Council Hall was attended by representatives of the Lotha organizations and elders from the community.
The four-hour long meeting reviewed the challenges and adopted resolutions aimed at protecting lives, livelihoods, and land rights.
Border dispute and eviction concerns: Lotha Hoho chairman Er. Mhondamo Ovung expressed concern over recent eviction drives in disputed areas and alleged that Assam government spearheaded the operation without proper coordination with Nagaland.
“Although they call it a joint eviction, we are not certain there was any government-to-government coordination. Post-eviction land ownership must be claimed by Nagaland, as disputed means equal rights for both sides,” Ovung said.
He urged the state to provide manpower and logistical support.
Human-Elephant conflict: The house also discussed the growing human-elephant conflict including the recent August 2, incident where Rentsamo Odyuo of Riphyim New village was trampled to death by wild jumbo.
Lotha Hoho has submitted a memorandum to the principal secretary of forest, environment & climate change & wildlife conservation demanding immediate and fair compensation to the victim’s family. It also demanded establishment of conservation sanctuaries in elephant habitats and preventive safety measures.
On the Foothill Road Alignment, the meeting reaffirmed the importance of completing the foothill road alignment through Wokha district to improve connectivity and security for border residents.
Lotha Hoho chairman said that a meeting was held in the month of May, when it was reaffirmed that the existing foothill road committee should continue its work.
Asked about resolutions adopted, the chairman said that the house resolved to form expert committees on both the border dispute and the human-elephant conflict.
“The conflict has worsened with the destruction of reserve forests,” noted Hoho members stressing that preventive measures and habitat protection were urgently needed.
Asked about 5 Tribes Committee on Review of Reservation Policy (CoRRP)’s call to abstain from government functions, including the upcoming Independence Day celebrations, Er. Mhondamo Ovung said the Lotha Hoho stood in support of the committee. However, he clarified that Lotha Hoho was yet to issue any formal circulation or notification on the matter.