59 houses demolished as Assam and Nagaland resume eviction at Mekirang

Morung Express NewsWokha | October 17Tension resurfaced at Mekirang village along the Assam-Nagaland border near Merapani on October 17 as the governments of Assam and Nagaland jointly carried out an eviction drive involving 59 houses.Wokha Deputy Commissioner K Mhathung Tsanglao, SP T Relo Aye, the border magistrate and representatives of civil society organisations were present during the operation.Following the eviction, Mekirang Village Council Chairman Sorenthung Lotha urged both state governments to exercise wisdom and pursue an amicable solution to the longstanding border dispute.He also drew attention to the lack of road connectivity to Mekirang, Lio Longchum and Longayim villages along the Marachu–Mekirang route, pointing out that the villages remain dependent on Assam for transportation and access to essential services.Sorenthung said the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation (LLRPO), along with concerned residents, had launched a crowdfunding initiative to construct a motorable road, as the villages could no longer afford to wait indefinitely for government intervention. However, he said the funds collected so far were insufficient to move the project forward. He appealed to residents and well-wishers to contribute towards the initiative, describing the road as a vital lifeline for the three villages.Meanwhile, the LLRPO Secretary Zathungo Yanthan cautioned that the eviction drive should not automatically lead to the transfer of land or the loss of Naga land rights. He urged the governments concerned to work towards a mutually acceptable and lasting resolution to the border issue.Highlighting the challenges faced by villages located near the disputed area, he said dependence on routes through Assam continued to leave the residents vulnerable whenever tensions or other issues arose along the border.He stressed the need for a practical solution to safeguard the interests of the affected villages, describing road connectivity as an urgent requirement for their safety and survival.Yanthan also called for at least a chip-sealed road along the Marachu–Mekirang route, stating that improved connectivity was essential for mobility, access to basic necessities and the long-term welfare of the three villages.