According to a statement issued by Dimapur Police, violence broke out at Maova Village under Medziphema on Friday morning during a meeting between members of Chakhroma Youth Organization and residents of Maova Village, resulting in injuries and large-scale property damage.
Police stated that information was received around 9:30 am regarding a meeting between the two groups. In view of potential law and order implications, the Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) Medziphema along with the Officer-in-Charge of Medziphema Police Station and available personnel proceeded to the village to maintain peace and order.
Upon arrival, officials found both groups engaged in heated arguments. At approximately 10:30 am, the situation escalated into physical scuffles, with individuals allegedly assaulting each other using sticks and chairs, followed by stone pelting from multiple directions. Police said attempts by security personnel and the district administration to disperse the crowd were hampered by the large gathering, estimated at around 2,000 persons.
During the incident, the EAC Medziphema and two security personnel sustained injuries. One NAP (IR) personnel reportedly suffered a serious head injury due to stone pelting and was shifted to hospital for treatment.
Police reported that the mob vandalised nine houses and three shops and torched multiple structures including eight shops, one community hall, one youth office, and one council guest house under construction. More than 30 LPG cylinders were said to have exploded during the fire. No casualties were reported. A total of 21 vehicles, including both four-wheelers and two-wheelers, were damaged, with three vehicles completely burnt.
In view of the deteriorating situation, additional reinforcement led by DCP Chümoukedima along with fire tenders was deployed, and the situation was brought under control by around 11:30 am, police stated. Authorities added that traffic movement has resumed and the situation is being closely monitored.
The police condemned the acts of violence, arson and destruction of public and private property and appealed to citizens to maintain peace, avoid spreading rumours or unverified information, and refrain from unlawful assembly. Community leaders and civil society organisations were also requested to cooperate with authorities to maintain harmony.
Patton expresses concern over Maova Village violence; urges restraint and lawful resolution
The Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, Y Patton, has expressed concern over the incidents that took place at Maova Village under Chumoukedima District and appealed to all communities and organizations to exercise restraint while allowing peace to be restored through lawful means.
In a statement issued by the Media Cell of the Deputy Chief Minister (Home & Border Affairs), Patton called upon all organisations and community bodies involved, directly or indirectly, in the matter to “step back from confrontation and place their trust in the established mechanisms of dialogue, customary law, and district administration.” He stated that these institutions exist to resolve disputes “without harm to any community.”
The Deputy Chief Minister noted with relief that the situation had been brought under control by the authorities and urged all parties to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation. He also called on the administration to ensure continued security in the area and to act swiftly and impartially in addressing the grievances of those affected.
The statement reiterated an appeal for calm and cooperation among all stakeholders as authorities continue to monitor the situation.