The Chakhesang Students' Union (CSU) has announced the temporary suspension of its ongoing agitation against the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for a period of 15 days. This decision follows an official assurance from the NHIDCL office, addressing the key issues that had sparked the protest.
The CSU, in a letter addressed to the General Manager of NHIDCL's Project Management Unit (PMU) in Pfutsero, Nagaland, referred to a communication from NHIDCL (Ref No. NHIDCL/PMU-PFU/Project Gen/VOL-XI/488 dated October 23, 2024), which acknowledged the students' concerns. The letter highlighted unresolved issues such as project delays, environmental impacts, and the management of local community interests. NHIDCL's commitment to addressing these concerns prompted the CSU's decision to temporarily halt their agitation.
The CSU leaders, represented by President Mr. Pfhulo Sara and General Secretary Mr. Kuzoto Swuro, expressed cautious optimism in their communication. They affirmed that while the protest is suspended for now, the Union will closely monitor the progress of NHIDCL's actions. The CSU warned that if the promises are not met within the agreed-upon timelines, or if the issues remain unaddressed, they will resume their agitation.
The CSU has been advocating for accountability and transparency in NHIDCL's handling of regional infrastructure projects, particularly focusing on the impact of delays and the environmental consequences of construction work.
The suspension of the agitation gives NHIDCL a 15-day window to fulfill its commitments, after which the CSU has signaled its readiness to reinstate democratic means of protest.
Copies of the notice have been sent to key regional stakeholders, including the Deputy Commissioner of Phek, the Executive Director of NHIDCL in Kohima, and media outlets for further dissemination.
This temporary reprieve allows for a period of dialogue, with the CSU maintaining a vigilant stance on the developments ahead. (PR)