The Chathe Valley Landholders Union (CVLU), under Tsüüma Village jurisdiction, has issued a strong condemnation of what it described as the “unwarranted actions taken by the Maova Village Council on 13th February 2026.”
In a press release, the CVLU stated, “We stand in full support of the retaliatory measures taken by the Chakhroma Public Organization (CPO) in response to this hostile act.”
The Union described the incident as “a stark reminder of the long-standing issue with the Maova Village Council’s blatant disregard for the rights of the Naga people, perpetuated through the enforcement of the so-called ‘Kuki customary law.’ This law has been used as a tool of hostility against Naga landholders and has led to ongoing harassment for decades.”
The CVLU provided historical context, saying, “The Maova Village Council, under the guise of Kuki customary law, has subjected Naga landholders to severe discrimination and violence since the 1990s. To illustrate, one of our members purchased land including a building in Maova Village in 1995. However, in 1996, after the existing house was dismantled to build a better facility, the Village GB unlawfully seized the land claiming that under Kuki customary law, the ownership had lapsed once the building was dismantled.”
The press release also highlighted recent harassment: “Labourers working on these lands have been physically assaulted, the construction of fences and structures has been obstructed, and even the development of fish ponds has been destroyed. The Maova Village Council has imposed a blanket ban on the settlement of landholders on their own property, citing the so-called ‘unique Kuki customary law.’”
The CVLU alleged further encroachment, stating, “The Village Council’s GB and his family had erected illegal structures on our members’ private property with the apparent intention of encroaching upon our land under the pretext of so-called ‘unique Kuki customary law.’”
Despite repeated attempts to resolve the disputes, the CVLU noted, “Despite numerous efforts by landholders to resolve these issues through dialogue with the Maova Village Council, all attempts have been in vain. The CVLU has formally submitted multiple complaints to the administration and local law enforcement agency.” They added that a 2021 court ruling had already addressed the matter: “On 24th November 2021, the Dobashi (DB) Court at Medziphema passed a judgment affirming not to obstruct any developmental activities and settlement of any person or people. Despite this ruling, the Maova Village Council has continued to enforce its appalling Kuki customary practices, directly contradicting the Court’s order.”
The Union also criticized recent media statements, saying, “It is also essential to address the misleading statements made by the Maova Village Council Chairman in various media outlets on 14th February 2026 and in print on 15th February 2026. These statements were filled with misinformation, further exacerbating the issue.”
The CVLU described the latest confrontation as alarming: “Most alarmingly, on 13th February 2026, a team from the Chakhroma Public Organization (CPO, led by its President, was mishandled by the youth and women of Maova Village while attempting to meet with the Village Council’s GB and Chairman to resolve the ongoing disputes. This unwarranted act of aggression is unacceptable and deeply troubling.”
In response, the CVLU “unequivocally condemns this violent and hostile action against the President of the CPO and his team,” adding, “The conduct of the Maova Village Council and its supporters has only further highlighted the insurmountable differences between the Naga people and the Kukis of Maova Village.”
The CVLU suggested, “In light of these continued provocations and the inability to coexist peacefully, the CVLU strongly suggests that the Kukis of Maova Village consider relocating to another area in order to restore peace and harmony in Nagaland.” The Union also called on authorities, stating, “We call on the Government of Nagaland and all relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action to protect the rights and interests of the Naga people, ensuring that justice is served.”