PRESS RELEASE

The Tzurangkong Kaketshir Mungdang (TKM) expresses deep grief and outrage over the recent statement made by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Nagaland Shri. Neiphiu Rio, during a press interview, Wherein he stated that Assam and Nagaland would share natural resource royalties on a 50/50 basis from the exploitation of resources in Tzurangkong.

In this connection, we firmly assert that Tzurangkong range is the ancestral land and home of the Tzurangkong people and the Ao Naga community in general. It has been inhabited and protected by our forefathers for generations, and we cannot allow any form of exploitation that disregards our rightful ownership and traditional land rights. The TKM strongly opposes any exploration or extraction of natural resources in our land, and we will ensure that no external entity or authority is allowed to exploit the resources of Tzurangkong against the will of our people. This is a very serious matter, and we urge the government to address it with the outmost seriousness and sensitivity.

We have observed that, at times, the government makes unilateral decisions regarding land and resources without consulting the rightful land owners. Such actions create unnecessary tension, particularly in a small northeastern state like Nagaland, where border areas are already vulnerable to encroachments and disputes. As rightful owners, it is our duty to protect our land, and we will not remain silent when our ancestral rights are at stake.

The TKM is committed to protecting the land, identity and heritage of the Tzurangkong people and the Ao Naga community from any form of encroachment or exploitations.

******