Kohima: The Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) demanded the state government de-recognize Maova village on July 17. The group submitted an 8-point charter of demands to the Chief Secretary via the ADC in Medziphema. This followed a protest rally at New Medziphema earlier that day. The dispute centers on traditional land rights in a Kuki-inhabited village.
The CPO demands that Maova village officials follow historical government decrees and pay taxes to Tsüüma village. These obligations stem from administrative orders issued in 1979, 1980, 2001, and a 2010 ultimatum from the Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur. The memorandum also calls for the termination of the Maova Head GB and the end of hereditary chieftainship. The CPO claims these practices lack support under the 1978 Nagaland Village and Area Councils Act.
Protesters demand the state verify residency certificates against the 1963 electoral roll. Tensions rose following an incident on February 13, 2026. CPO President Zhato Kimho and Vice President Sebastian Zumvü signed the document. During the rally, Kimho questioned why the state recognizes Kuki villages on Chakhroma land without consent. He urged security forces to avoid mirroring policies from Manipur in Nagaland. Thejao Vihienuo of the Angami Public Organisation stated that the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873 and Article 371 (A) protect only indigenous Nagas.
The Chakhroma Youth Organisation warned that failure to act could force youth to take independent measures. Medochüzo Medoze, the group's president, stated, "Our patience is finished from today." Neithono R Sothu of the Angami Women Organisation alleged that traditional landowners now face threats and intimidation. She urged officials not to plant alien cultures in their land.
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