The Tikhir community in Thonoknyu town has raised objections to the proposal of hosting the Khaozaosie Hok-ah cum Mini Hornbill Festival in the town due to ongoing land disputes. In an official letter addressed to the Commissioner of Nagaland, Kohima, the community expressed concerns over the sensitive nature of the unresolved issues in the region.
The letter, signed by representatives of the Tikhir community, cited a communication from the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in Thonoknyu regarding the event. The Tikhir community has pointed out that Thonoknyu town and village are currently embroiled in unresolved land disputes, which could make hosting the event a sensitive matter. “The concerned is risk of aggravating tensions in a disputed town, which may exacerbate between the two communities of the Tikhir and Khiamniungan tribe, potentially leading to unrest or conflict,” the letter stated.
The community also raised concerns that holding the event in Thonoknyu could be perceived as favoritism toward one of the parties in the ongoing land dispute. The letter referenced a previous incident in 2021 when the State Government did not permit the Golden Jubilee celebration of Women and Baptist Youth Endeavour department of Tikhir Baptist Church in Thonoknyu due to similar land-related tensions. “The Golden Jubilee celebration of Women and Baptist Youth Endeavour department of Tikhir Baptist Church Thonoknyu town were not allowed to celebrate in the year 2021 by the State Government owing to the counterclaim of land issues between two communities,” the community noted.
Given the sensitive nature of the situation, the Tikhir community has suggested alternative locations for the event. “There are other regions, towns and district headquarters without such complications that would be better suited to host the Khaozaosie Hok-ah program, ensuring a peaceful event,” the letter added.
