Kohima: Former Lok Sabha MP and NDPP leader Tokheho Yepthomi has delivered a scathing critique of the Nagaland government, alleging negligence in safeguarding the state’s natural resources and addressing critical infrastructure challenges.
Yepthomi raised alarm over Assam’s oil exploration activities in territories claimed by Nagaland, accusing the state government of failing to act decisively.
He also flagged delays in key projects such as land allocation for the Dimapur Airport expansion and action against encroachments at Dimapur Railway Station—both essential for the region’s economic and infrastructural growth.
Revisiting past gains, Yepthomi recalled that in 1994, Nagaland earned Rs. 33.83 crore in oil royalties from ONGC’s exploratory activities. The earnings included a 15% royalty and an additional 3% under Article 371A, which grants Nagaland special rights over its resources.
However, oil extraction in the state was halted due to disagreements within civil society, which invoked Article 371A to argue that land and its resources belong solely to the people.
Opposition to external involvement and demands for a resolution to the Naga political issue further stalled progress.
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In stark contrast, Yepthomi highlighted Assam’s remarkable strides in oil extraction and refinery development.
Over the years, Assam has established four major refineries—Digboi, Guwahati, Bongaigaon, and Numaligarh—significantly increasing their combined production capacity from 5.85 MMT to 17.00 MMT annually.
The Numaligarh refinery alone expanded from 3.00 MMT to 9.00 MMT per annum since its establishment under the 1985 Assam Accord.
Assam has also developed 19 oil fields to support these refineries, with seven of them located within Nagaland’s borders.
These fields include Champang, Hozukhe, Khopanala, and Toshezu.
Yepthomi further alleged that oil extraction might be occurring in other fields, such as Nikihe, Tokishe, and Phishikhu, without Nagaland benefiting from the revenues.
According to Yepthomi, Nagaland’s inability to resolve the Naga political issue has allowed Assam to exploit oil resources along their shared border and within Nagaland for over five decades.
This has resulted in significant revenue losses for Nagaland while Assam continues to reap the benefits.
Yepthomi’s remarks reflect his frustration with the state government’s perceived inaction in protecting Nagaland’s resources and advancing developmental projects.
He urged the government to prioritise proactive measures to reclaim control over the state’s natural wealth and address pressing infrastructure needs.
His statement serves as a wake-up call, demanding immediate attention to resource management and development in Nagaland to ensure its long-term growth and prosperity.
