It appears that the proposed redevelopment and modernization of Dimapur Railway Station into a World Class station with a Rs.283 crore budget is coming under a cloud of uncertainty as occupants/landowners of railway land are digging their heels and refusing to give an inch unless they were paid adequate compensation.
To take up the matter on behalf of the occupants, a newly formed ‘Railway Affected Land Owners Association(RALOA)’ convened its first meeting Wednesday at Shree Shree Ram Thakur Sevashram, premises, Netaji colony, Dimapur.
Briefing media persons after the meeting, convenor of the RALOA, Khekaho Assumi, informed that the occupants of the lands, expressed willingness to part with their land and properties on the condition that they were paid adequate compensation in accordance with the Railway Act. He pointed out that the particular Act stipulated double the rate over the prevailing market rate.
“Our land and properties can be handed over for development, but only if fair compensation is ensured. The government must honor Article 371A, which safeguards the rights of Naga people, and adhere to the legal framework,” stated convener.
He said most of the occupants of railway lands had patta issued by the Government of Nagaland but despite this, the Railways labeled some landowners as encroachers.
On the nascent RALOA, Assumi said previously land occupants were fragmented into small unions based on locality, but now all have consolidated into a single association to present a unified stance.
He said RALOA presently comprises over 300 registered members, with more expected to join as they validate their land records.
He also said RALOA has formed its action committee to address disputes and negotiate with authorities and that the formation and activation of the action committee will be contingent upon the demands of the situation.
Assumi mentioned that while the matter is currently being contested in court, the association remains open to dialogue with the Railway Ministry and the state government to find an amicable resolution. However, he reiterated RALOA stand of not giving an inch of land without fair compensation.
Adviser to RALOA, S.Hukavi Zhimomi criticized the recent statement made by former Lok Sabha MP and NDPP member TokhehoYepthomi on eviction at the Railway land. He emphasized the constitutional protection under Article 371A, where land in Nagaland belongs to its people. He said any acquisition must follow due process, including consultation, agreement, and compensation.
In this regard, Hukavi said RALOA condemned such statements by political leaders who suggest immediate eviction without addressing these rights.
Further he said the former MP had made a “blunt statement” and as a leader, rather, he(Tokheho) should protect the right of the Nagas. He said no leader can infringe on Article 371A, which protects the rights of the people granted by the government of India, enshrined in the Indian constitution.
On the eviction, Hukavin asserted that, RALOA members will not part even an inch of land as per their right unless compensation was made. Therefore, the Government of India or the Railway Board or the state government, central government, have to come forward and address the needs of the people and demand of the people.
He added that the central and state governments must acknowledge that land acquisition without compensation violates fundamental and constitutional rights. Another member quipped “development cannot come at the cost of the people’s livelihoods”.
Tuesday, May 26, 2026