NTPA expresses regret, clarifies to RALOA rejoinder

Nagaland Tree Planters’ Association (NTPA) has sincerely regretted the unintended use of the term “compensated land” in its June 15, 2025 press statement.
Acknowledging the Railway Affected Landowners’ Association’s (RALOA) rejoinder in response to its statement and appreciating the former’s concerns, the
NTPA in a press note clarified that its aim was to highlight issues related to encroached land meant for railway development, and not to question the legitimacy of genuine landowners, adding that the clarification was in the interest of constructive dialogue. It further clarified that its previous statement was not intended to target or implicate any individual, group, or community, but rather aimed at advocating for the protection and development of railway infrastructure in Dimapur.
NTPA claimed that it was an undeniable and observable fact that large areas that were historically demarcated for and used by the railways had now been illegally encroached upon by private individuals and entities.
The association pointed out that these areas that were part of critical railway infrastructure, including railway sidings, godowns, and service roads, had been systematically built over disrupting both the functional space required for operations and future development.
NTPA stated that of particular concern was the disappearance of the old goods loading point, historically referred to as New-6, which once extended nearly a kilometre and played a strategic role in the region’s transportation network.
According to the association, the encroachment of this area represented a significant loss of public infrastructure, underscoring the urgency of addressing the broader issue of unauthorized occupation of railway land. The association reiterated that its focus remained squarely on the preservation of public land, promotion of lawful development, and the need for transparent, equitable solutions that balanced infrastructure growth with respect for genuine landowners.
Reaffirming its firm stance against illegal encroachment on railway-demarcated land, NTPA urged the authorities to prioritise fair, transparent, and inclusive planning in all future development initiatives. NPTA assured of being committed to promoting sustainable progress that strengthened public infrastructure while ensuring that the rights and needs of the broader community were respected.