The Nagaland Zeliang People Organisation (NZPO) and the Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) have extended full support to the proposed Foothill Road project while declaring that they would not allow any outside organisation to interfere with or hamper the progress of the project within Peren and Chümoukedima districts.
The resolution was adopted during a joint consultative meeting of the two apex bodies held at the CPO Hall in Chümoukedima on May 22, where several socio-political and security issues affecting the region were discussed.
In the joint resolution, the two organisations expressed appreciation to the Government of Nagaland and various civil society organisations for making possible the “long-awaited dream” of having a Foothill Road from Khelma to Tizit.
The organisations resolved to extend full cooperation to the government for the early completion of the project and stated that the NZPO and CPO would take “full supervision” and responsibility for necessary surveys and alignment of the highway.
“Without any bias or favour towards any CSOs, we shall not allow any Organisation from outside the districts of Peren and Chümoukedima to interfere in or hamper the smooth progress of the project,” the resolution stated.
The two bodies also urged the State Government to take up the matter with the Government of India for expediting the proposed Trans-Nagaland National Highway, including the Foothill Road project, and to issue necessary work orders to deserving firms at the earliest.
On the prevailing situation in Manipur, the organisations expressed concern over the continuing violence, particularly the conflict involving Kukis and Nagas in the State.
The resolution strongly condemned the May 13 ambush, mass abduction and killing of hostages at Leilon Vaiphei Village in Kangpokpi District and appealed to all parties involved to prioritise human life and regional peace.
The meeting also resolved to organise a cultural exchange program between the NZPO and CPO every three years on a rotational basis between Peren and Chümoukedima districts in an effort to strengthen and rekindle Tenyimia ties.