Dimapur: The situation in Moava village remained under control on Saturday, with no fresh incidents reported, police officials said. Security personnel have been deployed in and around the area to prevent further escalation, while authorities continue to closely monitor the situation.
At least 48 people were injured in a clash on February 13, triggered by a long-standing land dispute involving villagers and members of the Chakhroma Youth Organisation (CYO). The Maova Village Council (VC) convened a press briefing to present the village’s account and prevent misinformation.
Sutminlal Vaiphei, VC chairman, said the council was not officially informed about the Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) visit and learned only through informal sources that more than 1,000 people were approaching the village. “Immediately, we informed the district administration and police,” he said.
Vaiphei described the incident as “most unfortunate” and stressed that the village did not wish to blame any party. He refuted claims that the Kukis had assaulted the police or EAC officials, stating that the council had informed authorities and that the Kukis themselves needed protection. He added that the crowd swelled to thousands, injuring youths and women, and a local pastor who intervened was also hurt.
Addressing concerns over development and land disputes, Vaiphei clarified that Maova requires proper consultation with the GB and council for any project. The disputed land belongs to a Kuki individual, and attempts at negotiation failed, prompting the matter to be referred to the CPO.
He denied that the village was “prepared” for violence, noting that residents were instructed to avoid confrontation while women were positioned at the forefront to prevent escalation. Vaiphei welcomed thorough police and forensic investigations into allegations of ammunition or explosives and reiterated the village’s commitment to dialogue and cooperation with authorities.
The chairman urged all parties not to communalise the issue and expressed hope that peace and normalcy would be restored in Maova village soon.