Nagaland: Land dispute settled after 85 years

June 26, 2023 28 Views No Comment

Dimapur, June 26 (MExN): In a momentous and historic development, the land/boundary dispute between Pherima and Piphema village which had lasted more than eight decades eventually came to an agreement on June 24, 2023. It was witnessed by Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) and Chakroma Public Organisation (CPO), stated a press release issued by WSH media cell.

Officials from WSH, CPO, leaders from other organisations, as well as leaders, GBs, and council members from both villages attended the official programme that was conducted at Mid-Way Resort Tseipama village to commemorate the occasion.

Piphema ‘A’ Baptist Church, pastor, Pezangulie Keyho had earlier led the laying of a border pillar and a prayer, it stated. CPO President, Shikaho Zhimomi and Piphema Khenu Krotho, President, Pelezetuo Kuotsu shared brief remarks.

Thanksgiving and blessing was pronounced by Rev Dr Phughoto Sema, Executive Secretary, WSBAK.

During the programme, Taka Masa, Sr Advocate & Mediator for Pherima village gave a brief background of the case. “After 85 years, finally with God’s wisdom upon the leaders of both villages, this issue—which had been long-standing since British time and the case still pending at Guwahati High Court Bench—could be resolved amicably,” he stated.

He said that on December 21, 2021, the two villages decided to withdraw the case from court and use mediation to resolve the issue. On March 17, 2021, the court granted the mediators 60 days to complete their work. On April 3, 2021, the two mediators representing the two villages, Taka Masa for Pherima village and CT Jamir for Piphema village, met with the leaders of both villages and conducted inquiries and investigations.

During the process, they also sought for extensions from the High Court nine times, and it ultimately took more than two years to resolve the conflict. “The final spot verification was completed on May 31, 2023, and both communities accepted the specified demarcation. On June 7, 2023, seven border stones/pillars were constructed,” it stated.

In the presence of WSH and CPO, the GBs and councils of the villages as well as the mediators signed the agreement papers, it added.

The programme concluded with a celebration feast.

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