The Tikhir community of Longtsunger village in Nagaland’s Kiphire district has issued a clarification regarding the October 10 incident, alleging that a series of “warning letters” against its scheduled Tsonglaknyi festival preceded the confrontation and the subsequent evacuation of villagers.
In a statement dated October 18, the community said it had celebrated the Tsonglaknyi festival annually without disruption. However, it alleged that a joint statement issued on October 7 by the head gaonburas of Zaonger (Yimkhiung) and Zhimkiur villages opposed the planned October 10 celebration. According to the Tikhirs, that statement claimed Longtsunger village was established on land belonging to Zaonger and Zhimkiur and that both villages fell under the jurisdiction of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC). It allegedly warned of consequences if the directive against holding the festival was not obeyed.
The community further stated that a warning letter was issued on October 8 by the Metemnyo Club (Yimkhiung), cautioning that the community and the club would not be held responsible if the situation escalated. It also alleged that Hanso T, identified as the village council chairman, verbally warned the Tikhirs against celebrating the festival on October 10 and issued a written warning without consulting the council.
Recounting the events of October 10, the Tikhir community claimed that people from Kiusam came to its rescue as the confrontation spiralled out of control, forcing villagers to evacuate. It further alleged that armed individuals had been stationed in and around Longtsunger since October 9, describing this as evidence of a planned attack.
In a separate statement, also dated October 18, the Longtsunger Village Citizens said nine Village Guard (VG) personnel were directed to leave the scene by the deputy commandant in charge of VG Kiphire after their houses were burnt and the situation became uncontrollable. The personnel, who were reportedly outnumbered by the alleged aggressors, were evacuated to Kiusam headquarters with police assistance for their safety.
The Longtsunger Village Citizens expressed dismay over the incident, citing the loss of life and property suffered by both sides, and called for the restoration of peace and harmony between the communities.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/tikhir-community-disputes-account-of-longtsunger-incident
Category: Nagaland
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-10-19 16:00:00
