Nagaland: TUN backs BAN on airport land issue

Tenyimi Union Nagaland (TUN) has strongly endorsed the representation submitted by the Business Association of Nagaland (BAN) to the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding the continued occupation of Dimapur Airport land by the Assam Rifles Training Centre (ARTC).
In a press release, TUN president Kekhwengulo Lea and general secretary Dr. Tumda Newme stated that land acquired for a specific public purpose cannot be diverted or retained indefinitely without lawful basis. TUN maintained that continued occupation of civilian aviation land has severely constrained the expansion and safety upgradation of Dimapur Airport, thereby impeding Nagaland’s connectivity, commerce, and overall development.
The union also stated that Dimapur Airport, which remained the only commercial airport serving the state, was critical to economic growth, investment, tourism, and emergency services. TUN stated that the long-standing delays in its expansion have already placed Nagaland at a significant disadvantage compared to other states.
The union asserted that the matter now called for practical and timely administrative resolution in the larger public interest. TUN stated that restoration of airport land to civil authorities was essential for planned development and efficient functioning of aviation infrastructure. Therefore, TUN has urged the MHA to take decisive steps to resolve the issue without further delay and ensure that land meant for public infrastructure was used for its intended purpose.