Kohima, Feb 13 (NationPress) A violent confrontation arose from a long-standing land conflict in Maova village, located in the Chümoukedima district of Nagaland, resulting in injuries to at least 27 individuals, including a government official and a police constable. Numerous residences, vehicles, and public infrastructure suffered significant damage during the altercation.

As per a senior police official based in Kohima, the clash took place in Maova village, situated within the Medziphema sub-division, where tensions have been escalating for years due to a protracted land dispute.

In response to the violence, additional security personnel were dispatched to the site promptly, and authorities have managed to stabilize the situation. The police have urged the community to uphold peace and avoid taking matters into their own hands.

Local residents reported that tensions flared over claims that land buyers were obstructed from pursuing construction and agricultural activities in Maova and its neighboring regions.

It has also been alleged that certain constructions occurred without the necessary permissions on contested lands. The Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO), which represents the traditional landholders and residents, previously sent a formal notice to the village headman on December 2 of the prior year, demanding the removal of what they labeled as 'illegal constructions' by December 25.

The CPO asserts that construction activities persisted despite their notice. CPO president Zhato Kimho mentioned that organization representatives attempted to engage with the village headman and chairman but were allegedly barred from entering the village by a mob of approximately 70-80 individuals.

According to police reports, the situation escalated when villagers began throwing stones, resulting in injuries to the Extra Assistant Commissioner of Medziphema, a police constable, and around 25 young individuals.

In retaliation, over a hundred youths later entered the village, dispersing the mob and reportedly setting fire to several houses deemed to have been built illegally on private land. Numerous vehicles were also damaged during the confrontations and retaliatory actions.

Kimho condemned the incident as 'extremely unfortunate,' emphasizing that such violence contradicts the values upheld by the CPO and Naga cultural traditions. He noted that the Kuki and Angami Naga communities have historically coexisted peacefully based on customary practices, but lamented that relations have worsened over the last two to three years.

Kimho further claimed that a significant number of Angamis have acquired land in Maova village over time, leaving only residential areas unsold.

Meanwhile, Nagaland's Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, who oversees the Home portfolio, expressed his concerns regarding the incident and called for peace and calm among the populace.

In a post on X, Patton stated: 'I am deeply troubled by the recent reports of violence and arson in Maova village. Any actions that disrupt peace and jeopardize lives and property are serious concerns. I appeal to all involved to remain calm, exercise restraint, and pursue lawful and constructive means to address any grievances.'