DIMAPUR, JAN 9 (MExN): The local commission instituted by the Supreme Court to look into the Assam-Nagaland border dispute today gave a normal hearing to the cases of both states. The hearing will continue tomorrow as Nagaland could present its case only partially today owing to time constraints. Nagaland Industries Minister, Khekiho Zhimomi, termed as historic the setting up of a statutory body to examine the dispute and said that it would be placed on record.
He said the notification of the 1925 boundary demarcation does not “exist physically.” Quizzed by The Morung Express on whether the non-possession of land ownership records such as ‘pattas’ would rule against Nagaland, he replied by saying that since the State Government has recognized villages, as against ‘pattas’ which are for individuals, Nagaland has a stronger case.
Nagaland Commissioner TN Mannen, pleased that there was little doubt and apprehension in today’s session, said the hearing was “absolutely positive.” He said the three-member commission, comprising of retired Supreme Court judge Justice SN Variava as Chairman, retired PCCF of Andhra Pradesh Kamal Naidu and Assistant Survey General of India SP Goel, were very fair. “The Commission members are very balanced,” he said, “They are in favour of the truth.” Mannen said the commission, or any other for the matter, should not be condescending in attitude even if Nagaland is a small state.
