The Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) has called on the Nagaland government to step in and resolve the dispute between the Centre Chakhesang Youth Organisation (CCYO) and the Forest Department over the detention of Vezhoto Hesuh by the Wildlife Crime Control Unit (WCCU) in Dimapur.
CYF president Kevesa Khamo, in a statement, questioned the handling of Hesuh’s detention, describing it as arbitrary. The organisation also raised concerns over the lack of progress in resolving the matter, alleging that the Forest Department had not shown the commitment needed to reach an acceptable outcome.
The CYF said the state government must take the concerns of the Chakhesang community seriously, particularly in view of the constitutional protections under Article 371A. It pointed to provisions concerning Naga customary practices and traditions, as well as the ownership and transfer of land and its resources.
Calling for a transparent approach, the organisation said the dispute should be addressed with due consideration for the concerns raised by the community. It also sought an impartial review of the circumstances surrounding Hesuh’s detention, stressing the importance of the rule of law and natural justice.
The CYF cautioned that continued delays could further strain relations between the public and the government. It said a timely resolution was necessary to prevent mistrust from deepening and to maintain peace and mutual understanding.
The organisation urged the government to act promptly to settle the matter amicably. It also warned that it would be compelled to exercise its democratic rights and intervene if the issue remained unresolved, holding the government responsible for any untoward incidents that might follow.