The Liangmai Naga Council (LNC-M) Working Committee has confirmed large-scale destruction at Liangmai Marenmei village following an official visit on December 7, conducted alongside Liangmai leaders. The team reports that the village has been “devastated beyond recognition,” with more than 370 houses destroyed, livestock looted, and church properties and community storage facilities ransacked. The estimated loss is pegged at around Rs. 6 crore.
According to the Working Committee, villagers were forcibly coerced and evacuated by miscreants, who allegedly acted under the instructions of one Achan, former EO of the Maramthangal CAA, GPRN. Women were reportedly manhandled, and several villagers were beaten severely. The displaced residents are now taking shelter in refugee camps, stripped of both their homes and livelihoods.
With Christmas approaching—a season symbolizing peace, love, and fellowship—the committee expressed deep anguish that the people of Marenmei cannot return to their ancestral homes to celebrate in safety.
Declaring that “no amicable solution is in sight,” the Working Committee issued a set of urgent appeals.
Recognition of rightful ownership: All land, hills, rivers, and mountains in the Naga Hills belong to their rightful community or clan. No individual, they stated, has the authority to seize land or alter its traditional name for personal gain.
Restoration of justice: The committee demanded acknowledgement of rightful owners and full compensation for the massive destruction and displacement.
Respect for customary law and peaceful coexistence: The statement urged all communities to uphold customary practices, historical rights, and legal norms, emphasizing that only dialogue and lawful processes can bring lasting peace.
The LNC-M Working Committee and Liangmai leaders affirmed their commitment to securing justice for the displaced villagers and called upon authorities, civil society groups, and all stakeholders to intervene urgently to restore peace, dignity, and lawful ownership to the rightful inhabitants of Marenmei.
