Reiterating to the CSC on PNG arbitrary stand on the final ‘Draft Modality’ which is all set to be tabled before the Assembly on 21st and 22nd Sept 2012 for its adoption in the ‘Nagaland Petroleum and Natural Gas Resolution’ 2012, the union cautioned that the Govt. must not forget it represents the people. It shares the responsibility in the case of governance but is not an absolute owner of lands as in the case of Nagaland state. Further, clarifying that Art. 371(A) has guaranteed the provisions to the Nagas for its protection and preservation of the Customary laws and practices.
So, while formulating the laws with regard to land and its resources, prior consent of the Tribal Hohos is a must and the representatives are to be taken into confidence. Misinterpretations of the special provisions enshrined in Art. 371(A) would be anti-social element for the Nagas which will never be forgiven for generations to come. Anything short of our Rights in land ownership is Detrimental and poses a major threat to the fabric of our society. Customary laws and practices which is a ‘Heart and Soul’ to the Nagas will remain forever theirs.
With regard to the draft modality, people of Changpang and Old Tssori have been extending its maximum co-operation to the CSC on PNG ever since its invitation. We do respect and appreciate the tireless efforts and valuable contributions of CSC, our Representatives from Wokha Dist. The apex Kyong Hoho, Student bodies and every intellectual adding input to the ongoing modality. After series of meeting and opinion polls the Kyong Hoho culminated with the ‘Alternative Draft Modality’ that was presented to the CSC on PNG.
However it was very disheartening for Changpang and Old Tssori villages to learn that its representation was denied. Preparing a draft modality was a call of the CSC to every Tribal Hohos. Wokha Dist. being the most potential where Oil and Gas are much talked and written about in the state felt more pressure and responsible and came up with the Alternative Draft. Perhaps Kyongs approach was not selfish in any aspect if one has to refer to its contents. Infact the Alternative Draft modality submitted by the Kyong Hoho was a sum-total of our grievances. The Union was very disappointed to see a huge cut down in the percentage (%) from the effected Land Owners share of 6% to 4%. From every 100 rupee as per the previous model a total of 16% is expected from any firm, 8% goes to the Govt. But as per the latest Cabinet decision 2% has been a direct cut from the Land Owners share of 6%.The CSC decision was not appreciated as the model displayed 1.6% of the 8% Govt. share would go to the DPDB. What we don’t agree is even the DPDB is also a Govt. agent and so any deduction for developmental activities in the district should be borne from the Govt’s share. Land owners from both the party will not compromise on the manipulation meted out to them.
CSC has to tackle the issue very carefully if it wants modality to be applied in the soil of Changpang. It must consider the already created complication caused by the disparity in the % break-ups. Greater consequence awaits us once it is put into practice and will have adverse effect on implementing the Modality.
A brief highlight from the recent- past revenue distribution show case a direct discrimination to the Land Owners. Nowhere in the history had there been such a massive revenue contribution of rupees 33.84 Crores to the State than Changpang oil Block. Several questions arise as to what developmental activities have the Govt. done with that amount. A sum of Rs. 67 lakhs only to the Land Owners was an act of prejudice from any measure. As State Govt. goes on with the Draft Modality and talk on Oil business, it must remember that Changpang Village still don’t have a road connectivity. Special provision has to be laid down for Changpang Block as it is already in a production period as compared to the other Oil blocks. Life of the people and their safety environment to live in is a matter of great concern than tapping wealth from its sides. CLOU had been addressing to the Govt. regarding the Oil Spillage, however the preventive measures sanctioned by the Govt. are yet to be ascertained and remains pending.
We call upon the likeminded Public Organisation, Student bodies from the adjoining Districts that share the Oil potential belts to co-operate and raise their voices before any final resolution is adopted by the State Assembly. Stating that Changpang and Old Tssori will continue to protest for their Rights and seek compensation for the crop damages and the loss of opportunities for the past 18 years. No oil activities will be allowed unless the past mistakes are rectified. However we’ll extend our co-operation for the ongoing Modality as it’s for the entire Naga interest. Nevertheless, the Term “RESPECTABLE, HONOURABLE AND ACCEPTABLE” ought to be implied in principle and practice.
Mhao Odyuo
President, Changpang Land
Owners’ Union, Wokha
John Kikon
General Secretary,Changpang Land
Owners’ Union, Wokha
