ZCOs oppose HAC decision, unauthorised oil exploration
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 26 2024: Peeved with the HAC's recent recommendation on the ADCs, the Zeliangrong Civil Organisations (ZCOs), comprising the Zeliangrong Youth Front (Manipur State Unit), Zeliangrong Students' Union (Manipur), and Zeliangrong Baudi (Manipur State Unit), have demanded that the HAC immediately withdraws its unconstitutional resolution.

The organisations adopted resolutions condemning unauthorised oil exploration in Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary area during a consultative meeting held on Saturday, informed a statement.

Terming the HAC's decision as a 'violation of democratic principles', the ZCOs demanded that the HAC withdraw this recommendation immediately.

The HAC recently recommended to the government to temporarily constitute a 20-member ADC, with 18 members selected from former ADC members, experts in local governance, and eminent personalities, and two government nominees until ADC elections are held, the ZCOs stated, adding the temporary measure is unconstitutional and arbitrary.

Simultaneously, the organisations also denounced a "No Objection Certificate" and "Letter of Authority" issued by the Naga National Government (NSCN-IM) authorising oil exploration activities in the Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary.

This certificate reportedly grants Longchaibi Gonmei, Kilonser of Zeilad Region, the authority to liaise with the company conducting the seismic survey and exploration for oil reserves.

The ZCOs stated that these actions were carried out without the knowledge or consent of the local population, violating their rights as landowners and disregarding public opinion.

The statement observed that the Zeliangrong community has consistently opposed oil exploration in the region since the Geological Survey of India's attempts at geochemical mapping and seismic data collection in Tamenglong and Noney districts.

The ZCOs criticised NSCN-IM for failing to seek community approval before issuing exploration certificates, calling it a clear breach of respect for the landowners' rights.

The ZCOs appealed to the state government and the Naga political groups to approach issues affecting the Zeliangrong people, as well as the broader Naga and tribal communities, with greater caution and respect for local rights and opinions.

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