DC Zunheboto Rahul Bhanudas Mali, IAS Addressing the media after the meeting on March 17 at DC Chamber, Zunheboto. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | March 17
A meeting addressing the ongoing Kheshepu issue was convened on March 17 at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Zunheboto. The discussions focused on resolving the tension surrounding the Kheshepu matter, with all parties aiming to find a peaceful and democratic solution.
Kikheto Muru, Vice President of the Sumi Hoho, emphasized that the meeting was conducted in a calm and peaceful manner. He expressed concern over the issue but noted that both parties had gained a better understanding of each other’s perspectives. Muru underscored that no party should take the law into their own hands.
The issue dates back to 2017 when the Cabinet made a decision to derecognize the village. LV Redy, the then DC of Zunheboto, had issued an order addressing the issue, which led to the demolition process. Muru further clarified that the Sumi Hoho, adhering to Sumi customary law, cannot issue directives to surrounding villages regarding the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOC’s) for the establishment of new villages.
“Since no order has been issued by the district administration, I cannot comment on what actions may be taken in the future. However, we hope that such issues will not occur again before April 1, when we plan to find a more permanent solution,” Muru stated.
Rahul Bhanudas Mali, DC Zunheboto, also addressed the media following the meeting. He explained that the gathering aimed to resolve the issue amicably and peacefully. Both parties, according to Mali, expressed their commitment to settling the matter without further conflict.
“Both parties are happy to find a peaceful resolution, and we have imposed fines on the individuals involved in the incident last week. Strict actions will be taken against anyone who engages in such behavior in the future,” Mali said.
Mali added that a follow-up meeting is scheduled for April 1, where further steps will be discussed to ensure a lasting solution. “We urge both parties to remain calm and peaceful, so we can address this issue democratically and in accordance with the law,” he said.
In response to the situation, the district administration has deployed 8 NAP (Nagaland Armed Police) personnel to Kheshepu to maintain law and order. DC Mali said that the issue should be resolved according to customary laws, and to establish a village, NOCs from surrounding villages must be procured. The matter of forged documents, which has contributed to the conflict, will also be examined in the upcoming meetings.
A stay order has been issued, instructing that no further actions should be taken by either party before the scheduled meeting. The meeting was attended by both parties involved in the conflict, including DC Zunheboto Rahul Bhanudas Mali, IAS; SP Zunheboto Kupe Kapfu, and Kikheto Muru, Vice President of the Sumi Hoho.
