Tikhir community disputes account of Longtsunger incident

Dimapur, October 18 (MExN): The Tikhir community of Longtsunger village in Kiphire district has issued a clarification on the October 10 incident, alleging that “warning letter” against its scheduled Tsonglaknyi festival preceded the confrontation and subsequent evacuation of villagers.In a statement dated October 18, the Tikhir community said it had celebrated Tsonglaknyi annually without disruption. However, it alleged that a joint statement issued on October 7 by the head gaonburas of Zaonger (Yimkhiung) and Zhimkiur villages opposed the scheduled October 10 celebration.According to the Tikhir community, the statement claimed that Longtsunger village was established on the land of Zaonger and Zhimkiur villages and that both fell under the jurisdiction of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC). It allegedly warned of action if the directive against holding the festival was not followed.The community further stated that a warning letter was issued by the Metemnyo Club (Yimkhiung) on October 8, cautioning that the community and the club would not be held responsible if the situation escalated. It also alleged that Hanso T, identified as the village council chairman, verbally warned the Tikhirs against celebrating the festival on October 10 and issued a written warning without consulting the council.Recounting the events of October 10, the Tikhir community claimed that people from Kiusam came to its rescue amid the confrontation, which it said became uncontrollable and led to an evacuation. It further alleged that armed individuals had been stationed in and around Longtsunger since October 9, describing this as evidence of a planned attack.Separately, the Longtsunger Village Citizens, in a statement dated October 18, said nine Village Guard (VG) personnel were directed to leave the scene by the deputy commandant in charge of VG Kiphire after their houses were burnt and the situation became uncontrollable. The statement said the personnel were outnumbered by the alleged aggressors and were evacuated to Kiusam headquarters with police assistance for their safety.The Longtsunger Village Citizens expressed dismay over the incident, citing loss of life and property affecting both parties, and called for the restoration of peace and harmony between the communities.