Morung Express News
Kohima | September 24
In a positive development regarding the longstanding land dispute over the Kezolta/Kozüru/Kazing forest area along the Nagaland-Manipur border, the Mao Council (MC) has announced its acceptance of the judgment passed by the Tenyimi Public Organization (TPO) Presidential Council on July 12.
According to the July 12 verdict, the TPO delineated the entire forest area into three sections among the involved parties- the Southern Angamis of Nagaland, and the Mao Council and Maram Khullen of Manipur. Initially, the Mao Council rejected the TPO’s decision, asserting that it did not adhere to fundamental Tenyimi customary laws and traditional practices.
However, in a shift of position, the MC officially accepted the TPO's judgment and order in a letter dated September 23.
Following their initial rejection, the Mao Council was approached by the Lhisemia (L) Khel of Kohima Village on August 30 and the Angarni Public Organization (APO) on September 6, during which they expressed sentiments and grievances regarding the dispute.
The L Khel conveyed that their intention was not to undermine the MC's stance but to earnestly appeal for reconsideration in the interest of peace and unity within the Tenyimi family. The APO also emphasized the importance of prioritizing unity among the Tenyimi people.
In light of these discussions, the Mao Council expressed appreciation for the outreach and encouragement received, acknowledging the TPO Presidential Council’s magnanimity in granting an extension until September 25 to address their internal situation.
Subsequently, the Mao Council convened a Council Assembly on September 23 to reconsider its earlier position in light of these outreach efforts and the TPO's extension. After thorough deliberation, the assembly decided to communicate its revised stance to the TPO office.
TPO reiterates commitmentto forest preservation
In parallel, the TPO has reaffirmed its commitment to the strict enforcement and preservation of the Kezolta/Kozüru/Kazing forest, which spans approximately 30 square kilometers. TPO President Timikha Koza stated that the area will remain designated as a reserved forest, with its preservation being strictly enforced for the benefit of the global community.
Currently, no development activities are taking place within the forest, with strict prohibitions against the collection of flora and fauna, as well as hunting or burning within the area. When asked about the status of the dispute in the customary court of the TPO, Koza confirmed that the merits of the case has been resolved.
He commended the involved parties for their cooperation and acceptance of the TPO Presidential Council’s verdict, emphasizing that this would foster goodwill among the Tenyimi community.
Koza announced plans to establish a forest committee, inclusive of all parties, which will operate under the strict supervision of the TPO. A presidential council meeting will be convened to finalize these arrangements.
As per the July 12 verdict, the forest and its natural resources will be preserved and protected from any form of exploitation for 50 years, with a footpath access allowed from the Tenyimi Southern Naga side to the Dzükou valley.
