Konyak Union Denies Dam-Related Flooding Allegations

Kohima: The Konyak Union has slammed claims linking Assam's ongoing floods to a dam in Nagaland's Mon district or illegal mining in Naginimora. No dam exists. The union confirmed on July 31 that the Dikhu Hydro Electric Project is merely a proposal on a list from the Central Electricity Authority. It has never been built or commissioned.

These allegations followed viral social media videos and reports citing Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi and Assamese Youth Forum general secretary Akash Saikia. The union labeled the accusations baseless. It pointed to the massive natural disaster that hit Mon district on July 19 and 20 instead. Unprecedented rainfall triggered mudslides and flash floods. The water hit Naginimora and Tizit only after ravaging higher hill ranges. The storm killed 11 people and displaced over 650 families. It destroyed homes, schools, shops, tea gardens, and livestock while cutting off electricity and roads for thousands.

The union dismissed the link between flooding and coal mining after conducting its own field assessments. Officials urged the public to avoid spreading unverified claims that threaten the bond between Assam and Nagaland. The group specifically warned that spreading such misinformation could lead to legal action if it causes further trouble. "Natural disasters should never be politicised or used to promote speculative narratives without scientific evidence or official verification," the union stated. Leaders requested that future inquiries rely solely on technical assessments from verified, competent agencies.