Black flags mark Day 14 as CSU demands termination of contractor
The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has entered the 14th day of its fourth phase of agitation against the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and EPC contractor M/s Ratna Infrastructure Project Pvt. Ltd., citing “persistent negligence” and “unacceptable handling” of the Kohima–Jessami Road (Package 2) project.
The ongoing symbolic protest, marked by black flags hoisted along the road, reflects the Union’s “deep dissatisfaction and strongest resentment” at the lack of progress despite repeated appeals and formal communications. “Neither party has demonstrated sincere intent nor made visible progress on the ground,” the CSU said in a statement.
The Union called the Kohima–Jessami Road a “critical lifeline for the region” and slammed the contractor’s “substandard execution,” which it said has “endangered lives, disrupted mobility, and severely impeded both economic and developmental activities in the area.”
With the monsoon season underway, the situation has reportedly worsened.
“Potholes have increased in number, and rainwater now inundates the road, effectively transforming it into a river,” the CSU noted. “The complete absence of a proper drainage system has worsened the situation, posing grave safety hazards and accelerating structural degradation.”
Citing “repeated failures, gross negligence, and lack of accountability,” the Union has submitted a formal representation to the Managing Director of NHIDCL, New Delhi. This representation is supported by recommendations from the Phek District PMU (Ref: No. DCPK/LR/2-LANE/GEN/1/2021/171, dated Phek, 13th June 2024), as well as two NHIDCL letters (Ref: NHIDCL/PMU-PFU/KJ-II/RIPPL/Vol-1/68 dated 19-08-2024 and NHIDCL/PMU-PFU/KJ-II/RIPPL/Vol-1/112 dated 1-04-2025), all demanding the immediate termination of M/s Ratna Infrastructure Project Pvt. Ltd.
The Union reiterated it “will not remain a silent spectator to the ongoing hardship faced by the people.” Pledging to “exhaust every democratic and legal avenue to ensure justice is served,” the CSU stressed the need for “a competent, accountable contractor” to complete the project in a timely and quality manner.
Calling upon all stakeholders to act without delay, the CSU warned: “The time for excuses is over. This moment demands accountability and decisive action.”
The Union added, “No compromise. no delay. Termination or agitation continues.”
