Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Oct 11:
In a decisive administrative order issued on October 8, 2024, the Wung Tangkhul Region (WTR) under the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim reaffirmed that Litan/Litan Bazar belongs to Sikibung/Sharkaphung village, in accordance with historical boundaries and customs.
This directive follows a similar statement from the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) on September 19, 2024, declaring any claim by Mr. Hemkhothang Baite, Chief of Sareikhong Kuki, over the land as false and illegal.
The dispute dates back to a 1973 settlement agreement, which was aimed at maintaining peace between Sikibung/Sharkaphung and Sareikhong villages. The Chief of Sareikhong Kuki was required to pay Rs. 20,000 to Sikibung/Sharkaphung village by July 31, 1974, but failed to settle the remaining Rs. 10,000, thus breaching the agreement. As a result, the agreement was declared void in accordance with Tangkhul Naga traditions.
Despite these legal and historical precedents, Mr. Hemkhothang Baite recently laid claim to Litan Bazar. In response, Wung Tangkhul Region(WTR) has reiterated that Litan Bazar is ancestral land belonging to Sikibung/Sharkaphung village and warned that any violation of this order would result in immediate eviction under Naga customary law.
The order calls for peace and respect for age-old customs, urging all parties to honor the traditional boundary settlements established by their forefathers.