Tensions Rise Along Assam–Nagaland Border in Golaghat
Protests have intensified in Golaghat’s Chungajan area after a concrete gate reportedly erected by Nagaland residents was perceived as encroaching on Assam land, deepening longstanding border tensions.
GOLAGHAT— Fresh tensions have surfaced along the Assam–Nagaland border in the Chungajan area of Golaghat district, as local residents staged protests alleging territorial encroachment by members of the Naga community. The demonstrations come amid broader, long-standing disputes over the boundary between Assam and Nagaland.
On Monday, villagers from Navamilanpur, Mahima and surrounding localities in the Chungajan Majgaon Panchayat area took to the streets after a concrete structure — reportedly a gate named “Shokhuvi” — was erected on a road connecting Navamilanpur and No. 2 Shantipur. Locals claim the gate, allegedly built by individuals from Nagaland’s Niuland district, encroaches upon Assam’s territory, triggering fears of gradual occupation.
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Protesters submitted a memorandum to Border Magistrate Priyamjyoti Phukan and Sarupathar Sub-Divisional Police Officer Dipen Pator, demanding the immediate removal of the structure. “We demand the gate be removed immediately,” said a resident representative, alleging repeated appeals to state authorities have yet to yield adequate responses.
Critics at the protest accused security forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force, of bias, claiming that objections by Naga residents were addressed more swiftly than those raised by Assamese villagers. They also warned that if assurances on border resolution and land rights remain unmet, the community might pursue alternative measures.
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The unrest highlights the long-running Assam–Nagaland border dispute, which has seen periodic flare-ups and protests arising from contested demarcations and overlapping territorial claims. Previous incidents in nearby areas, including allegations of homes being set on fire along the border late last year, underpin local anxieties about security and encroachment.
Officials have so far maintained a cautious stance, urging dialogue and administrative review of border grievances. The developments in Chungajan add to calls from villagers and local organisations for a more definitive resolution from the Assam government and the Centre, especially with state and national political dynamics intensifying in the run-up to upcoming elections.
