Wokha, 26 July (MTNews): The Lotha Lower Range Public Organization (LLRPO) has expressed deep “shock” over the exclusion of its MLA from the recently announced Ministerial Group on Petroleum & Natural Gas 2023-2028, constituted by the Governor of Nagaland.
The LLRPO, representing the Bhandari H.Q, the oil-bearing area and the first oil extraction site in Nagaland, has raised concerns about its local area MLA, who represents the 40 Assembly Constituency, not being included as a member of the group. The LLRPO strongly emphasized the need for inclusivity and an accommodative spirit from the State Government.
Highlighting the historical significance of the Bhandari Assembly Constituency, the LLRPO pointed out that the first crude oil was struck and extraction works in Nagaland started from Changpang-Tssori, Wokha by the ONGC in 1973. However, the State Government of Nagaland suspended all its Petroleum & Natural Gas extraction activities through Naga Public agitation on 5 April 1994.
Therefore, the LLRPO appealed to the State government to start exploring and carrying out the extraction works with prior consultation by sitting across the table with the land owners and stakeholders including the apex organization of the Lotha Hoho and all frontal organizations under LLRPO.
The LLRPO further appealed to the State Government of Nagaland to include the Member of Legislative Assembly from 40 – Bhandari AC as a co-opted member even if not Ministerial Group Member of Petroleum & Natural Gas Nagaland for smooth and successful implementation, where the LLRPO will extend support and cooperation.