MOKOKCHUNG, FEBRUARY 4 (MExN): The Tzurangkong Kaketshir Mungdang (TKM) has expressed deep grief and outrage over a recent statement made by Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, during a press interview. In his comments, Rio suggested that Assam and Nagaland would share natural resource royalties on a 50/50 basis from the exploitation of resources in the Tzurangkong region.
In response, the TKM has firmly asserted that the Tzurangkong range is ancestral land, both for the Tzurangkong people and the broader Ao Naga community. The area has been inhabited and protected by their forefathers for generations, and the TKM insists that any form of resource exploitation, which undermines their rightful ownership and traditional land rights, will not be tolerated.
The organization has made it clear that it strongly opposes any exploration or extraction of natural resources from the land, stating that no external entity or authority will be allowed to exploit Tzurangkong's resources against the will of its people. The TKM described this as a matter of utmost importance, urging the government to address the situation with the seriousness and sensitivity it deserves.
The TKM also pointed out the government’s history of making unilateral decisions regarding land and resources without consulting the rightful landowners. It warned that such actions have the potential to create unnecessary tensions, particularly in a small northeastern state like Nagaland, where border areas are already susceptible to encroachment and disputes.
While affirming its commitment to safeguarding the land, identity, and heritage of the Tzurangkong people and the Ao Naga community, the TKM vowed to protect them from any form of encroachment or exploitation.
