Saram Tangkhul refutes claims over village land
Source: Chronicle News Service

Thoubal, July 01 2025: Saram Tangkhul Development Authority has denounced as deeply unfortunate the claims by some individuals that Saram Tangkhul village in Thoubal district belongs to Langmeithet, and the restriction on plantation activities in the area.

Addressing media persons on Tuesday at the residence of the village chief, Saram Tangkhul Development Authority secretary Chithung Kishan expressed deep regret over reports that the Nongpok Ningthou Panthoibi Lai Thougal Lup, Langmeithet claimed in local media that the stream flowing through Saram Ching belongs to Langmeithet.

He strongly objected to the assertion that it is a Langmeithet stream.

While denouncing the prohibition imposed on oil palm cultivation on their own land, based on the claims that the area falls under Langmeithet and that entry is restricted, he urged authorities concerned to intervene and investigate the matter at the earliest.

Chithung Kishan further stated that Saram Tangkhul is a legally recognised village with an official map and land patta, and has been under the authority of the Settlement department for many years.

He said that the villagers have long been residing there, regularly paying hill house tax, adding that the village was officially recognised by the state government and included in the Gazette Notification issued in 1946.It is highly unfortunate for such an issue to arise again at a time when the state is already grappling with a crisis," he lamented.

The secretary further informed that the decision to cultivate oil palm in the village was taken after the Agriculture Department issued notice encouraging farmers to take advantage of the plantation scheme.

He expressed deep concern over the actions of some individuals from Langmeithet who not only prohibited the plantation of oil palm on Saram Tangkhul's own and but also restricted entry into the area.

He stated that such actions amount to an attempt to drive the villagers out of their own land.

The press briefing was also attended by members of the Saram Tangkhul Village Committee and local villagers.

Comment