SC Slams Nagaland Govt’s Disastrous Handling of Kakiho and Old Jalukie Village Crisis | MorungExpress

Nagaland Village Recognition Dispute Reaches Supreme Court Crossroads

Morung Express News
Dimapur | December 14

The Supreme Court has criticized Nagaland State Government’s protracted handling of the village recognition dispute between Old Jalukie and Kakiho Villages, a matter unresolved since 2009. A bench consisting of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan, in a December 3 hearing, highlighted the government’s indecision on Kakiho Village’s plea for recognition. Despite reports submitted in 2017, 2019, and a recent one dated January 22, 2024, the state has not settled this long-standing issue, perpetuating litigation.

The Court noted objections from Old Jalukie Village, challenging the recognition of Kakiho Village. However, the justices remarked that the basis for such objections remains unclear from the records. Previous rulings, such as the October 7, 2015, Gauhati High Court decision currently under Supreme Court review, clarified that an inter-district boundary dispute does not influence Kakiho’s recognition. The apex court now urges swift resolution, offering parties a final opportunity to substantiate their claims in the upcoming hearing scheduled for January 7, 2025.

The highest judiciary has mandated the Old Jalukie and Kakiho Village Council heads to attend the next session in person, alongside Nagaland’s Chief Secretary and Home Commissioner, who must outline government strategies for resolving the dispute. The bench emphasized that while an amicable settlement would be preferred, it will issue a directive for the state government to enforce the High Court’s prior decision if necessary.

Granting parties a four-week window to propose a viable solution, the Court aims for closure. This session continues under the context of a Special Leave to Appeal challenging the Gauhati High Court’s judgment from October 7, 2015. The Supreme Court’s engagement elevates the urgency for resolution, underlining judicial impatience with prolonged administrative inertia.

Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/sc-flays-nagaland-govts-handling-of-kakiho-and-old-jalukie-village-issue
Category : Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2024-12-15 02:50:00