IT News
Imphal, Oct 26:
The Zeliangrong community has expressed strong opposition to ongoing oil exploration activities initiated by the Geological Survey of India in the Tamenglong and Noney districts. Community representatives stated that these activities, which include geochemical mapping and seismic data operations, were being carried out without prior consultation with local landowners. They criticized the Naga National Government for failing to seek the community’s opinion before issuing certificates related to the exploration, claiming this action violated their land rights.
During a consultative meeting held today, members of the Zeliangrong Civil Organizations, which include the Zeliangrong Youth Front, Zeliangrong Students’ Union, and Zeliangrong Baudi, discussed the Hills Areas Committee’s recommendation to the Government of Manipur. This recommendation involved forming a 20-member Autonomous District Council, with most members chosen from previous ADC officials and experts, and only a small number nominated by the government. The ZCOs labeled this decision as unconstitutional and arbitrary, urging the HAC to retract its recommendation.
The meeting also addressed the “no objection certificate” and “Letter of Authority” issued by the NSCN-IM, which authorized exploration within the Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary. The community representatives condemned this action, emphasizing that it occurred without their knowledge or consent. They called for the government and Naga political groups to exercise more caution regarding issues affecting the Zeliangrong people and the wider Naga and tribal communities.