Naga Agitation Intensifies on Assam-Nagaland Border, Farmers' Land and Livelihoods Under Threat

Sarupathar, August 31: The agitation by Naga groups along the Assam-Nagaland border has seen a sharp increase, severely disrupting the lives of local Assamese residents. The escalating unrest has been marked by repeated claims over Assam’s land by Naga factions, including demands for shares of farmers' crops and intimidation of villagers in border areas such as Uriamghat's Raja Pukhuri No. 1 village. The Naga groups assert that the land belonged to their forefathers and call for recognition of their rights, demanding contracts and taxes from Assamese farmers cultivating the disputed land.

Following eviction drives by the Assam government to reclaim encroached lands, Naga activists have intensified their encroachments and escalated tensions with direct confrontations, threats, and even firing incidents, causing insecurity and fear among the Assamese villagers. Despite the presence of CRPF troops in sensitive areas, clashes and confrontations have persisted. Social media videos have shown Naga groups pressing villagers for agreements and threatening consequences if their demands are not met.

Local Assamese residents emphasize their historic presence and reject Naga claims on the land. They underline that none have paid taxes to Nagaland authorities and vow to protect their ancestral territories. The continued onslaught by Naga groups against Assamese farmland and homes, including previous incidents of arson and violence, has created a critical security situation that Assam's government has yet to conclusively address.

The situation remains volatile, with fears that failure to take strong, effective action may lead to further escalation and deepening hostility in the border areas. The unrest has plunged Assamese border communities into anxiety and calls for urgent intervention to ensure peace, security, and the protection of farmers’ rights in the region.