DIMAPUR, MAY 3 (MExN): The Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) has opposed the proposed installation of an Indian Air Force mountain radar system in Pfutsero town under Phek district, citing concerns over land rights, environmental impact, and livelihood.
A press release from the CYF said it stands by the decision of the Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) to uphold customary land ownership and community rights protected under Article 371(A) of the Constitution. It stated that it “will not tolerate any infringement” of these rights.
The CYF questioned the Nagaland Government over the absence of what it termed as a proper and transparent consultation process with the local community. “Why was a proper and transparent consultation not undertaken with the community in the first place,” the statement asked.
Highlighting concerns over the proposed site, the CYF said Pfutsero is among the most densely populated towns in Phek district and warned that the installation “in the heart of Pfutsero will adversely affect the local populace.”
It further stated that the identified area is an emerging tourist destination contributing to the local economy, particularly for youth. The CYF maintained that it “will not allow the economic lifeline of the youths to be chopped.”
On environmental grounds, the organisation said the Chakhesang community has long-standing cultural ties with nature and has committed to biodiversity conservation since 2000. It stated that the community “will not tolerate any rampant disturbance of the forests and wildlife which they’ve been carefully protecting for generations.”
The CYF also raised concerns about the impact on agriculture, stating that a majority of the population depends on farming. It noted that the proposed site is surrounded by organic farmland and warned that any disruption would affect agricultural output supplying to other parts of the state and beyond.
Water scarcity was cited as another issue, with the CYF stating that Pfutsero depends largely on groundwater and natural springs. It expressed apprehension that the radar system could affect water distribution and potentially pollute water sources and soil.
The organisation also pointed out that Phek district does not share any international boundary and “poses no direct foreign threats.” While acknowledging the importance of national security, it said such measures “should not come at the expense of the local population” and stressed that constitutional rights must be respected.
The CYF called on the Government of Nagaland and concerned authorities to relocate the proposed radar installation from Phek district. It added that “any forceful execution of the project shall be dealt with the strongest resistance and opposition.”
