Mimi-Laruri conflict: Tribal councils call for restraint amid land dispute

The Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) and the Pochury Hoho (PH) convened a joint meeting at DUDA Guest House, Kohima, to address the ongoing land dispute between Mimi Circle and Laruri-Siitsu. The meeting resulted in several resolutions aimed at maintaining peace and finding a fair resolution to the conflict.

Expressing concern over the recent escalation of tensions, the two apex bodies stated that they “express deep concern over the recent escalation of the land dispute between Mimi Circle and Laruri-Siitsu, particularly the unfortunate incident that took place on April 28, 2025.” They condemned the act of violence, stating that “such acts of violence are deeply regrettable as it threatens the peace and harmony shared between two communities,” while also offering prayers for “the speedy recovery of all the victims.”

In a strong appeal to both parties, the YTC and PH urged the people of Mimi Circle and Laruri-Siitsu to “exercise utmost restraint and refrain from any form of provocation, intimidation or violence.” They further directed both groups to “restrain from any sorts of press release in due regard and restrain from doing any activities in the disputed area.”

Regarding the ultimatum served by the Laruri Development Committee (LDC) and the two village councils under the Pochury Area Public Organization (PAPO), both organizations affirmed their commitment to “facilitating a joint inspection of the disputed land and to engaging in a fair and transparent process to find a lasting resolution.” As such, they made a collective appeal to the LDC and the PAPO village councils to “put in abeyance the ultimatum served to Pochury Hoho with utmost trust and in the true spirit and interest of brotherhood and peaceful coexistence.”

Additionally, the YTC and PH called on the state government to take immediate action, stating, “The YTC & PH appeal to the Home Commissioner and the law enforcing agencies to take immediate and necessary action by deploying adequate security personnel at the disputed area and adjoining villages till the matter is resolved amicably.”

Clarifying that the dispute is not a conflict between the two tribes as a whole, but between specific villages, the two bodies asserted, “The YTC & PH would like to make it clear that the recent incident is not between the two tribal entities but it is between a few villages.” They urged all tribesmen from both communities to “restrain from any acts that may disturb or escalate the issue between the two tribes.”

Asserting their commitment to peace, the YTC and PH concluded by urging all stakeholders to “uphold the values of peace and unity as we work collectively toward a constructive solution.”

MT