Phek, December 3 (MExN): The Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) has issued strict directives following reports of gunshots fired after a rare sighting of hornbill birds within the Surhoba Village area.
The disturbing actions, reportedly undertaken with the intent to hunt the bird, constitute a grave violation of existing standing resolutions and undermine ongoing conservation efforts, the front stated.
In an official circular on December 3, CYF highlighted the hornbill’s deep cultural and ecological significance for the Chakhesang and the wider Naga community.
The bird is revered as a symbol of identity, tradition, and harmonious coexistence with nature, it added.
Hunting, harming, or disturbing hornbills is strictly prohibited under both the organisation’s standing resolutions and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, the CYF pointed out.
“Violators will face strict disciplinary action as per the resolutions, including public disclosure of names as deemed necessary,” it added.
Offenders will also be penalised under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, which prescribes severe penalties, including imprisonment, CYF urged all its units and community members to remain vigilant and ensure that no hunting of hornbills or other wildlife occurs.
It further emphasised that wildlife protection is a collective responsibility and called for strict compliance with all legal and organisational provisions to safeguard both ecology and cultural heritage.
Though culturally significant and celebrated through a major festival, the hornbill has not been officially sighted in Nagaland in recent years.
