Morung Express News
Wokha | February 9
The second day of indefinite bandh called by the Lotha civil society organizations passed peacefully without untoward incidences. With no positive response forthcoming from the concerned authorities, a press conference was held at Lotha Hoho Ki.
During the press conference, Lotha Hoho Chairman, Mhondamo Ovung clarified that if contractors abandon the project, it is their own responsibility. He stressed that the role of organizations like Lotha Hoho or CSOs is not to act as government authorities, but rather to advocate for justice on behalf of the people.
When questioned on withdrawal of manpower and machinery by the TTC Infra despite the Deputy CM's order, Mhondamo stated that the responsibility lies with the District Administration, not CSOs. The District Administration should handle acquisition and machinery procurement, as they have disbursed compensation, he stated while adding that civil society's role is to advocate for justice, not to undertake these administrative tasks.
In respond to allegation made by TTC Infra on instances of obstructions and physical abuse against contractors, officials and agents, JAC Convenor Chiben Kikon admitted that there might have been “minor instances of manhandling and physical assault initially,” but asserted that such incidents have not occurred since the formation of the JAC and the involvement of CSOs. Additionally, he urged to those making allegations to provide proof to substantiate their claims.
Responding to TTC Infra statement claiming of having no complaints in their work, JAC Convenor stated that during a joint inspection conducted on May 22, 2023, involving the District Administration, concern department, Joint Action Committee (JAC), Lotha Hoho, LSU, and frontal organization, the Executive Engineer of the Kohima Division reportedly acknowledged the substandard quality of the work. He said this serves as evidence to support the claim that the work done by the contractor was indeed substandard.
Vice Chairman of Lotha Hoho, Mhathung Humtsoe, expressed that the contractor and the department should take immediate initiative to resume the work. If there is no positive response, he indicated that they would be left with no option but to intensify the bandh. The Lotha Hoho, meanwhile, assured that students with proper admit cards would be exempted from the indefinite bandh.
