Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Kohima: The Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO), a prominent tribal body in Nagaland, has formally voiced its opposition to the installation of an advanced mountain radar system in Pfutsero. The project, which is part of a broader federal high-altitude defence initiative, has been met with significant resistance from community leaders who fear the facility will negatively impact their region.
In an official statement released on April 30, the CPO criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the project, asserting that it was initiated without seeking informed consent or engaging in meaningful dialogue with local residents. The organization highlighted a lack of public access to safety studies, particularly regarding the long-term health risks associated with electromagnetic radiation exposure. Furthermore, they pointed to the absence of clear information concerning safety benchmarks, buffer zones, and the potential for environmental disruption.
Ecological concerns remain at the forefront of the opposition, as the Pfutsero area is vital for its biodiversity and agricultural productivity. The CPO cautioned that the construction of large-scale military infrastructure could threaten water sources, land stability, and local food security. There are also growing anxieties regarding potential land use restrictions and limited civilian movement that often accompany the establishment of restricted defence zones.
The tribal organization expressed disappointment with the state government, arguing that permitting the project to proceed without local engagement constitutes a breach of public trust. The CPO has demanded the relocation of the radar system to a less ecologically sensitive or uninhabited area. They have also warned that any efforts to move forward with the current plan will be met with unified and democratic resistance from the Chakhesang community.
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