Zunheboto, October 22 (MExN): The Sümi Hoho (SH) and the Sümi Kükami Hoho (SKH) have sought the prompt intervention of Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in securing an outright purchase of land for the District Hospital (DH) Zunheboto.
This would ensure the continuation of critical healthcare services in the region and uphold the interests of all parties involved, stated the SH and SKH in a joint representation.
The DH Zunheboto has been serving the community from its strategic location, providing essential healthcare services to the region for nearly six decades, they highlighted. However, there remains a long-standing issue regarding compensation for the land on which the hospital stands, they added.
The SH and SKH further pointed out in the representation that, for a considerable period, the landowners have been seeking appropriate compensation from the State Government, but it remains unresolved despite multiple appeals. Various reasons have been cited for the delay in addressing this legitimate claim, it said.
In the interest of public welfare and to ensure the smooth functioning of the hospital, the SH, along with other civil society organisations, had made several attempts to mediate between the concerned department and the landowners, it added.
According to the representation, the landowners have been expressing their willingness to sell the land outright to the department, offering a path for a swift resolution.
In this connection, the SH and SKH held that an “outright purchase” would not only expedite the development of the hospital and its facilities but would also ensure that the public continues to receive enhanced healthcare services and prevent any disruption.
However, the duo expressed concern that the landowners are now submitting a representation to the department, resolving to close the hospital if their long-pending demand for compensation is not met within a stipulated timeframe. If the hospital is closed, it would deprive the people of Zunheboto of critical health services, they highlighted.
Accordingly, the representation urged the Chief Minister's office to consider the matter with priority and facilitate a fair and timely resolution. “It is important to note that the landowners’ demand aligns with the rate recommended by the competent authority, making their request reasonable and justifiable,” it pointed out.
The resolution of this issue would not only address the grievances of the landowners but also secure the uninterrupted service of the DH Zunheboto, which is vital for the well-being of the community, it added.
Thus, the SH and SKH requested the Chief Minister's office to consider this matter with urgency and facilitate a fair resolution.
