Tensions at Assam-Nagaland Border: Locals Demand Action After Alleged 'Naga Attack' Destroys Forest Saplings

Uriamghat: Public outrage is intensifying in Assam’s Uriamghat region after alleged "Naga" intruders vandalised a forested area in the Rengma Forest Range along the Assam-Nagaland border on October 29.

Residents have accused the Assam government and neutral security forces stationed in the area of displaying apathy and favouritism in addressing the incident.

In response to mounting protests, CRPF Sector Commandant Euithuliu Newmai of the 142 Battalion was transferred on October 30.

Also Read: Meghalaya Leads Northeast in Green Energy: Over 50% Power from Renewables, Says Minister

Local communities and organisations have slammed the state administration for its perceived failure to safeguard residents’ lives, land, and property in the disputed border zones.

Reports indicate that the intruders felled thousands of Uriam saplings recently planted by the Assam government in areas cleared of encroachments. Trees planted by the Forest Department in the Uriamghat Sonaribil area were also uprooted. Locals claim Nagaland officials were directly involved in the destruction.

Also Read: “CM Must Remember the People Are the Real King”: MP Gaurav Gogoi Targets Assam CM

On Saturday, the Dhansiri Subdivisional Students’ Union (DSSU) organised a sit-in demonstration in Sarupathar, denouncing the state government’s inability to protect border inhabitants.

Protesters carried banners and chanted slogans such as “Resolve the Assam-Nagaland border dispute permanently” and “Safeguard the lives and land of Assam’s border residents,” while calling for swift and decisive action against the perpetrators.

Student leaders pressed both state and central governments to secure an enduring peace along the interstate boundary, cautioning that prolonged inaction risks further instability in the region.