Nagalad: CPO appeals AR to vacate Airport land

Expressing deep concern over the prolonged “illegal occupation” of Airport Authority of India (AAI) land by the Assam Rifles Training Centre (ARTC), the Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) has appealed to the Assam Rifles to consider the larger public good and facilitate the early vacation of the land to enable much-needed expansion of Dimapur Airport.
CPO through its media cell claimed that it possessed authenticated documents confirming the Dimapur airfield was formally handed over by the Indian Air Force to the then National Airports Authority (now AAI) in 1987.
CPO said the handover was signed by Squadron Leader BS Bamra on behalf of the IAF, establishing clear administrative ownership.
Despite repeated requests, CPO said ARTC continued to occupy the land, blocking critical airport expansion essential for economic growth, tourism, and modern infrastructure in Nagaland.
CPO said Assam Rifles motto “Friends of the Hill People” was contradictory to its actions particularly its demand for Rs. 16 crore in compensation for “ghost buildings” that were abandoned and decaying.
Further, CPO pointed out that alternative rehabilitation land has already been provided in Sukhovi and Diphu. It described ARTC’s refusal to vacate as an act of “bad faith” and a direct hindrance to state development.
CPO, therefore, appealed to the Assam Rifles to prioritise the larger public good and facilitate the early vacation of the land, enabling AAI to proceed with the airport expansion.
The organisation expressed hope that the appeal would be received in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, given the long-standing relationship between security forces and the people.