Nagaland: CCYO lifts non-cooperation movement against Forest Dept, ‘unseal’ offices

Three demands fulfilled; says Wildlife Protection Act issue remains unresolvedKohima, October 15 (MExN): The Centre Chakhesang Youth Organisation (CCYO) has lifted its non-cooperation movement and indefinite picketing at the offices of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Phek, and the Forest Range Offices at Phek and Pfutsero, following the fulfilment of its three chartered demands.Accordingly, the offices, which were ‘sealed’ on October 12 as part of the CCYO’s second phase of non-cooperation movement and indefinite picketing against the Forest Department, were unsealed on Thursday.However, it clarified that the decision to lift the agitation did not mean abandoning its broader objective, stating that the constitutional question surrounding the application of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, in Nagaland in relation to Article 371(A) of the Constitution remains a matter requiring serious consideration.The organisation urged the State government to revisit and thoroughly examine the Act and other applicable laws that may affect the rights and protections guaranteed under Article 371(A), particularly concerning Naga customary practices, social traditions, and the ownership and transfer of land and its resources.The CCYO called for meaningful consultations with the people, tribal organisations, customary institutions and other stakeholders in examining the issue.It further stated that its objective was not to undermine wildlife conservation or environmental protection, but to ensure that conservation laws are implemented in a manner that respects constitutional safeguards, customary rights and the unique identity of the Naga people.The organisation stated that it would continue pursuing the matter through appropriate democratic means and remain committed to justice, accountability, transparency and the protection of collective rights until the broader issues surrounding Article 371(A) receive due attention from the appropriate authorities.The CCYO also expressed appreciation to tribal bodies, civil society groups, youth organisations and the Naga people for their support and solidarity throughout the agitation.On October 14, the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Nagaland and CCYO) announced the ‘amicable’  resolution of their differences following a meeting in Kohima.