Dimapur, June 21 (MExN): Following continued statements in the media ever after appeals not to complicate the Seyochung issue further, the Deputy Commissioner of Kiphire today issued a clarification on the cause of the tension ‘to settle the doubts once and for all.’
“It is also hereby ordered that both the communities should live together peacefully as in the past and settle their differences amicably. Henceforth, any further action to be taken up by the village council on this issue should be done in consultation with the district administration. Any party violating this order will be viewed seriously and necessary action will be taken as per provision of law” the DC stated adding that the “Sumi community seeking permission for establishment of a separate village is also not accepted”.
DC L Yantsowo Lotha stated that prior to taking over as DC, his predecessor after considering the facts and circumstances arising at Seyochung had passed an order dated January 18, 2007 whereby ‘in the interest of public peace and tranquility, the notice dated 23.12.06’ was declared null and void as it was not approved by the district administration as per a standing office memorandum (No. VC¬11/2002-2005/2063-66/dtd. 04-09-05).
After he took over, the village Chairman of Seyochung village asked permission for calling a meeting of the two parties for amicable solution in the village between the two communities as per the former DC’s said order dated January. On receipt of the petition from the Chairman the SDO (C) Kiphire on April 14, 2007 to asses the ground position for conducting a joint meeting. The SDO (C) along with EAC (HQ) submitted a report that it was congenial for conducting a meeting. Accordingly, permission was given to have a joint meeting of the two communities on April 18. Security forces and DBs were also deputed to the venue of the meeting. No solution was arrived on the said day. Thereafter, having received several complaints from both the parties the DC on May 1 issued a notice summoning both the parties to attend the DC’s court on May 10 for sorting out the deadlock.
In the court meeting representatives, including GBs and council chairman, tribal presidents of both Sumi and Sangtam community were present. After hearing both the parties, the DC on the basis of facts and records available produced/submitted, came to a conclusion that the matter has been already settled/decided by the same court on January 18, 2007. DC L Lotha further ordered that ‘anything illegal’ arising between the two communities should henceforth be stopped in order to live together peacefully as in the past. It was further directed that violation of the order will be seriously viewed as per provision of law. The said order was passed by the DC on May 10 and given to both the parties and others.
The DC further stated that after the said judgment, the village chairman of Seyochung had on two occasions called meetings of both parties for amicable settlement. However, since the Sumi community of Seyochung failed to participate in the meetings due to “certain reasons as per information, the Sangtam community took it as an offence and thereafter on 12-06-07 after having a meeting passed a resolution giving seven days quit notice to the Sumi community of Seyochung with effect from 13.06.07.”
On receiving the information on June 14, the DC endorsed the SDO (C) of Kiphire to proceed to Seyochung to defuse the situation. Accordingly, the SDO (C) proceeded to the village on June 16. However, since there was a road blockade, the officer along with security could reach the village only on the 18th and passed an order declaring the quit notice issued to the Sumi community as null and void.
Further both the communities of Seyochung village were directed to abide the order of the Deputy Commissioner Kiphire in Toto as long as it stands. Any individual /groups/communities acting in contravention of the order or engage in any illegal /unlawful activities disturbing public tranquility and peace in Seyochung village and anywhere in the sub-division would be booked under appropriate section of law. Developmental activities, including VDB allocations would be suspended, the DC added. Seyochung village council was also directed not to hold any meeting in this connection within three months from the date of issue of this order and refrain from any activities that contravene the order and the judgment order of the DC.
Considering the situation EAC (HQ) Kiphire along with the security forces have been stationed at Seyochung village to over see further development if any, the DC added.
“Therefore, the undersigned to the best of my knowledge has not neglected my duty as a responsible and impartial administrator who stood firmed for the protection and welfare of both communities as reposed upon. Hence, considering the facts and circumstances enlightened above the undersigned has neither supported nor incited any party except to bring about peaceful solution within the two parties” he added while appealing for calm. He also appealed to all to desist from making any false comments on the situation that would invite repercussions.
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