The Western Sümi Hoho (WSH) has noted with concern the statement made by deputy chief minister TR Zeliang in the recent Assembly session regarding the delay in completing the Kohima by-pass road via Zhadima due to land disputes in Niuland.
In a rejoinder to the deputy chief minister’s statement on the Kohima by-pass delay, the WSH clarified that contrary to his statement that three villages under Niuland had demanded compensation, the actual fact was that only two villages had raised claims. However, with its intervention, the hoho said matter was amicably resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding.
Terming Zeliang’s claim that the land dispute was the reason for the delay as misleading and that it did not align with actual facts, the hoho stated that an agreement was reached, wherein landowners had agreed to withdraw their claims for compensations.
The rejoinder mentioned that the agreement was reached after a series of meetings and negotiations involving the WSH. “Despite this breakthrough, the project remains stalled. And the deputy chief minister’s statement fails to acknowledge progress made in resolving the land dispute. We request the deputy chief minister to reconsider his statement and acknowledge the constructive roles played by all concerned,” the hoho stated.
Stating that it looked forward to a prompt resolution of the remaining issues, enabling project work to resume and timely completion of the by-pass road, the WSH reasoned that this would ease the hardship of commuters plying between Dimapur and Kohima, particularly during the monsoon season, and foster greater collaboration and trust between the government and local communities.
The hoho said it was confident that with renewed commitment and cooperation, existing challenges could be overcome and the vital infrastructure project delivered for the benefit of all.