The Railway Affected Landowners’ Association (RALOA) on Wednesday expressed optimism that the long-pending land dispute linked to the proposed upgradation of Dimapur Railway Station into a World Class Railway Station was nearing resolution and appealed to organisations not to interfere in the matter.The issue was discussed during RALOA’s sixth general body meeting held at Hotel Saramati in Dimapur, where members reviewed developments surrounding the stalled railway infrastructure project.Addressing reporters after the meeting, RALOA president Khekaho Assumi said the association was keen on ensuring that the railway station upgradation proceeds without further delay, adding that an early settlement would benefit both landowners and the public.
Assumi said RALOA had met Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio in January, during which the chief minister reportedly assured support if no illegality was involved. Following the meeting, the state Cabinet constituted a High-Powered Committee to examine the matter, while the issue was also discussed in the Assembly session. He said the matter had now reached Delhi and informed that RALOA representatives would travel to the national capital between May 15 and 20 to meet the Union Railway Minister for an early resolution.
On compensation, Assumi said landowners should receive compensation for both land and structures under provisions of the Railways Act, though he added that RALOA remained open to a negotiated settlement. He also criticised recent remarks by the Naga Council Dimapur referring to Dimapur as “no man’s land” and urged organisations to avoid interfering in the issue.
