The Western Sümi Hoho (WSH) has issued a strong defense of the Aqahuto EAC HQ project following objections from the Lamhai Village Council (LVC) and the Nagaland Zeliang People Organization (NZPO). WSH has rejected claims made by the LVC and NZPO, asserting that the foundation stone for the EAC HQ, laid at Zutovi village on August 9, 2024, is valid and within the appropriate jurisdiction.
“The foundation stone was laid within Zutovi’s jurisdiction, a village with a well-established history dating back to 1948, predating Nagaland’s statehood, with the full consent and participation of the village authorities, thereby irrefutably affirming the location’s legitimacy and rendering claims of encroachment on Lamhai land entirely baseless and malicious,” stated the WSH.
It may be noted that Lamhai Village Council (LVC) and Nagaland Zeliang People Organization (NZPO) have raised an objection to laying of a foundation stone for establishment of the “Aqahuto EAC HQ” on August 9, 2024.
The objections from LVC and NZPO center on the legitimacy of the EAC HQ project. LVC Chairman Haibamko and Head GB Lungsileu have expressed concerns that there is no area known as “Aqahuto” under Lamhai village’s jurisdiction, where the foundation stone was reportedly laid by Minister PHE & Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi. They also questioned whether the project received proper government approval or a cabinet decision and criticized the necessity of an EAC HQ in the area, demanding immediate action against the minister if their concerns are not addressed.
NZPO President Kevipele Iheilung has similarly objected, stating that Lamhai village authorities were not consulted prior to the laying of the foundation stone and that the event was not covered in the media. NZPO also criticized the lack of cabinet decision regarding the EAC HQ and called for the dismantling of the foundation stone and eviction of any occupants near the site.
In response, the WSH in its statement asserted that Aqahuto area falls under Chumoukedima district, not Peren, contrary to NZPO and LVC’s deliberate misinformation. “Therefore, the question of Aqahuto being under Lamhai doesn’t arise. We demand that they cease spreading falsehoods and verify facts to avoid confusing the public,” the WSH stated.
Moreover, according to WSH, Aqahuto has existed since time immemorial, encompassing villages like Shokhuvi (established in 1926), Kiyevi (established in 1939), Pimla (established in 1954), and Zutovi (established in 1948), some of which predate Indian Independence and Nagaland statehood.
The WSH recalled Chief Minister’s unequivocal assurance during the Chumoukedima district inauguration, where WSH was assured of an EAC HQ for Aqahuto. “This commitment, made before various stakeholders, reinforces our confidence in the project’s legitimacy,” the WSH added.
The WSH reaffirmed its commitment to Aqahuto’s development, undeterred by “baseless demands and malicious allegations.” It also urged the Nagaland government to expedite the EAC HQ’s construction, which according to WSH will benefit Aqahuto and surrounding areas, driving regional development and strengthening community ties.