Nagaland: Four injured in clash over border dispute; Dy CM calls for calm

At least four people were injured in a clash between villagers from two bordering districts in Nagaland, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton confirmed on Monday.

According to a report by Thejoto Nienu for Eastern Mirror, a preliminary investigation by Nagaland Police indicated that the incident occurred on March 28 after 5:30 pm at a disputed area below Khongka village, near Laruri Bridge on Tizu River, under Pungro police station.

The dispute reportedly involves Laruri village (including Sutsu village) and Mimi village (including its satellite villages such as Mutingkhong and Kohongka). The report stated that the clash broke out when villagers from Laruri and Sutsu were constructing an approach road and cutting firewood in the disputed area. Suspected individuals from Mimi and its satellite villages allegedly “resorted to destruction of jungle huts and firing on these parties.”

As a result, one sustained a bullet injury to the head, while two suffered minor gunshot wounds to the foot and shoulder, respectively. Another individual was physically assaulted, the report added.

In response, one platoon of NAP (IR) was moved from Kiphire headquarters for immediate deployment at the disputed area, with an additional company of NAP (IR) also deployed. SP Meluri was coordinating with Pochury Hoho to ensure the safety of travelers commuting between Kiphire district and Kohima/Dimapur via Meluri district.

Deputy Chief Minister Patton assured that the situation is now under control and called for calm. “Deeply disturbed by the recent reports of violence, reportedly among few villages under Kiphire and Meluri districts. Such incidents not only disrupt peace but also harm the bonds that hold our communities together,” he stated in a post on X.

“While the situation is under control now, I urge all parties to maintain calm and work towards restoring harmony. Dialogue and understanding must prevail over conflict,” he added.

Patton visited the injured at the NHAK, Kohima accompanied by Pungro-Kiphire MLA S Kiusumew Yimkhiung, Meluri MLA Z Nyusietho Nyuthe, Director General of Police Rupin Sharma, Home Commissioner Vyasan R, and Meluri Deputy Commissioner Mhathung Tsanglao.

MT